Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable economic development, as highlighted by Jitan Ram Manjhi, Minister of MSME. The current challenges faced by businesses, such as financing, technology adoption, sustainability, and market access, call for collaborative solutions. At the inaugural ‘BRICS MSME Forum 2026’ in Agra, the minister emphasized the strengths and complementary capabilities of BRICS countries, aiming to empower MSMEs for driving innovation, exports, and employment.
The event gathered government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, and private-sector stakeholders from BRICS Member and Partner Countries to discuss enhancing MSME ecosystems, promoting sustainability, and boosting global competitiveness. India’s commitment to fostering stronger economic partnerships and promoting knowledge-sharing among BRICS member countries was reiterated by the minister. Bhupendra Chaudhary, State Minister for MSME, highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s rapid economic growth, attributing it to the significant role played by MSMEs in job creation and grassroots development.
Focusing on creating a conducive ecosystem through infrastructure development, policy backing, skill enhancement, and digital empowerment, Chaudhary emphasized the importance of exchanging global best practices via platforms like the BRICS MSME Forum. Bharat Khera, Secretary, Ministry of MSME, emphasized that MSMEs are not just economic entities but also drivers of innovation, employment, entrepreneurship, and regional progress. Khera pointed out the vast potential for collaboration among BRICS economies in areas like technology adoption, sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation, skill development, and market access.
The third ‘BRICS SME Working Group Meeting’ was succeeded by the Forum, marking a significant step in enhancing economic cooperation among BRICS nations with a specific focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, which are pivotal for economic growth, innovation, and job creation.
