India Pushes WTO Reform, Inclusive Trade at BRICS Ministers’ Meet in Brazil

India strongly advocated for equitable trade rules and deeper cooperation within the Global South at the 15th BRICS Trade Ministers’ Meeting, hosted under Brazil’s Presidency. Speaking against export controls among BRICS members, India urged mutual support and highlighted its commitment to a transparent, rules-based multilateral trading system. 

Image Source: Wiki/Representational only.

Representing India, Economic Adviser Yashvir Singh stressed the need to eliminate restrictive measures that disrupt supply chains and called on developed nations to enable concessional transfer of green technologies. 

A speech delivered on behalf of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal commended Brazil’s consensus-driven approach and welcomed Indonesia’s induction into BRICS. The meeting culminated in a Joint Declaration and three key frameworks focused on WTO reform, digital economy governance, and sustainable trade—reaffirming BRICS’ opposition to climate-linked trade barriers as disguised protectionism. 

India reiterated its push for a permanent solution on public stockholding for food security at the WTO and promoted its “30 for 30” proposal marking the body’s 30th anniversary. Highlighting sustainability and digital leadership, India presented its Mission LiFE initiative and reaffirmed its commitment to global partnerships in AI, cybersecurity, and digital public infrastructure under forums such as the G20 and GPAI.

As India prepares to assume the BRICS Presidency in 2026, it pledged to further the bloc’s vision for inclusive, decentralized, and development-oriented global trade.