The 6th BRICS Industry Ministers Meeting took place virtually on May 23, 2022, with Xiamen, China, serving as the host city. This significant event brought together industry ministers from the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—to discuss collaborative efforts in industrial development and innovation.

Participants

The meeting was chaired by Xiao Yaqing, China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology. Notable participants included:

• Paulo Alvim, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Brazil
• Denis Manturov, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation
• Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry of India
• Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition of South Africa

Theme

The central theme of the meeting was “Deepening Innovative Cooperation on New Industrial Revolution for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in a Stronger, Healthier, and More Resilient Manner.” This theme underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving sustainable industrial growth and resilience, especially in the context of the ongoing global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Discussions

Comprehensive Cooperation

The ministers discussed the importance of promoting comprehensive cooperation among BRICS countries. They emphasized the need to enhance mutual understanding, share best practices, and work together to address common challenges in industrial development.

Digital Transformation

A significant focus was placed on the digital transformation of traditional industries. The ministers recognized the potential of digital technologies to drive efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness in various sectors. They discussed strategies for leveraging digital tools and platforms to modernize industries and create new economic opportunities.

Industrial and Supply Chains

Collaboration on industrial and supply chains was another critical topic. The ministers highlighted the importance of creating an open, fair, vibrant, and resilient environment for cooperation on industrial and supply chains. They discussed ways to strengthen supply chain resilience and ensure the smooth functioning of industrial activities.

Outcomes

Joint Declaration

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the issuance of a joint declaration. The declaration encouraged BRICS countries to deepen industrial cooperation and expedite the recovery and growth of the industrial economy. It called for collaborative efforts to create a conducive environment for industrial and supply chain cooperation.

Review of Progress

The meeting reviewed the progress made since the first BRICS Industry Ministers Meeting in 2015. Notable achievements included the establishment of the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR) and the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center. These initiatives have played a crucial role in fostering innovation and cooperation among BRICS countries.

China’s Role

Minister Xiao Yaqing highlighted China’s efforts to balance pandemic response with socioeconomic development. He expressed China’s readiness to work with other BRICS countries to deepen cooperation on the new industrial revolution. China’s commitment to promoting innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development was emphasized.

Future Initiatives

BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center

The meeting discussed the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center, which aims to facilitate cooperation on new industrial revolution technologies. The center serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, conducting joint research, and promoting innovation among BRICS countries.

BRICS Center for Industrial Competences

Another initiative discussed was the BRICS Center for Industrial Competences. This center focuses on enhancing industrial capabilities and competitiveness through training, capacity building, and knowledge exchange.

BRICS Start-up Events

The ministers also discussed organizing BRICS Start-up Events to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. These events aim to provide a platform for start-ups from BRICS countries to showcase their innovations, connect with potential investors, and explore collaboration opportunities.

The 6th BRICS Industry Ministers Meeting underscored the importance of collaboration among BRICS countries in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable industrial development. The discussions and outcomes of the meeting highlighted the commitment of BRICS nations to work together in driving innovation, digital transformation, and resilience in the industrial sector. The meeting set the stage for future initiatives and cooperation aimed at achieving sustainable development goals and fostering a stronger, healthier, and more resilient industrial economy.