Ramaphosa urges BRICS local manufacturing boost

President Cyril Ramaphosa says BRICS countries must build local manufacturing industries and move beyond being suppliers of raw materials and consumers of goods produced elsewhere.

Speaking at the opening of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India , Ramaphosa said the organisation should use shifting global trade patterns, technological advances and climate challenges as an opportunity to build a more resilient, diversified and inclusive economy.

He called for deeper productive partnerships and greater value creation among BRICS nations.

“The council must serve not simply as a forum for consultation but as a mechanism for developing commercial relationships and productive partnerships.

As BRICS, we find ourselves at an inflection point as the global economy is reshaped as trade patterns shift, as technological advances accelerate and climate pressures increase.” BRICS SUMMIT | The BRICS Business Forum, focusing on trade, supply chains, and innovation, amongst others, is underway in India.

Addressing the forum, President Cyril Ramaphosa says adversity can create opportunity. pic.twitter.com/cnUw7pBgDw — SABC News (@SABCNews) September 11, 2026 RELATED VIDEO | Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit New Delhi for the BRICS Summit