India Takes BRICS Helm Amidst Global Trade Tensions, Eyes Stronger Global South Role

• India formally assumed the BRICS presidency for 2026, aiming to ease trade tensions and empower the Global South.
• The expanded BRICS now includes 11 members, accounting for 49% of the world's population and 29% of global GDP.
• US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Indian goods and warned against a BRICS common currency.
• India plans to resist de-dollarization, promote local currency settlements, and push for reforms in multilateral institutions like WTO and IMF.
• New Delhi will champion Global South issues, including food/fuel shortages, debt restructuring, and climate finance, while advocating clear BRICS membership criteria.

Why It Matters: India's 2026 BRICS presidency focuses on easing trade tensions, empowering the Global South, and reforming global governance.