India Leads the Way: Agra Hosts the First-Ever BRICS MSME Forum

The first-ever BRICS MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) Forum was held in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, on 19 June 2026, highlighting a major effort to boost economic cooperation between the BRICS countries-Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and the newly added countries. With the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability", the forum was attended by various policy makers, business leaders, entrepreneurs and industry experts to share their perspectives on how the small businesses can be empowered. The project is in keeping with India's leadership in the BRICS group and its efforts to advance inclusive economic growth through the increased strength of international partnerships.

The main objective of the forum was to facilitate a greater sense of collaboration among MSMEs, through the promotion of innovation, digitalization, sustainable production and access to finance. Delegates shared ideas on how to facilitate cross-border trade, encourage technology transfer and assist SMEs to enter into global value chains. The focus was particularly on fostering start-ups, women entrepreneurs and green enterprises. The sessions also shed light on the need to eliminate trade restrictions and new avenues for MSMEs to tap into global markets. India also shared its experiences and achievements in the field of digital public infrastructure, such as the use of UPI and ONDC, as potential models for other BRICS nations.

MSMEs are playing a crucial role in the Indian economy contributing around 30% of India's GDP, approximately 45% of exports and more than 250 million employment opportunities to India. With the first-ever BRICS MSME Forum, India is looking to bolster economic relations with emerging economies and inject fresh impetus into the growth of its small businesses. The forum is likely to fuel investment, innovation and technology sharing which will make the MSMEs more competitive in the global market. It will also strengthen India's agenda as a major player in championing the cause of developing economies and sustainable and inclusive growth through multilateralism.