- BRICS Urged to Promote Fair Global Trade: President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the need for BRICS nations to unite in fostering fair international trade and strengthening multilateral institutions during a recent leaders’ meeting.
- Shift to a Multipolar World Increases Challenges: Ramaphosa highlighted the global transition from a unipolar to a multipolar order, which has led to heightened competition, geopolitical tensions, and protectionism that hurt Global South economies.
- Economic Diversification and African Potential: He stressed the importance of meaningful BRICS initiatives to enhance economic resilience and diversify trade relations, emphasizing Africa’s potential as a Creator of value and driver of prosperity.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged BRICS nations to unite in driving fair global trade and strengthening multilateral institutions during the Extraordinary BRICS Leaders Meeting convened by Brazilian President Lula da Silva on 8 September 2025.
Ramaphosa said the world is shifting from a unipolar to a multipolar order, characterized by intense competition, geopolitical tensions and protectionist tariff measures harming Global South economies. He noted that South Africa has already seen job losses and slower growth due to new trade uncertainties.
He stressed the importance of meaningful BRICS initiatives that boost economic resilience and diversify trade ties with Africa, Asia, the Gulf, the Americas and Europe. Pointing to Africa’s untapped potential, Ramaphosa said the continent must be seen as a creator of value and driver of prosperity, not just an exporter of raw materials.
The President reaffirmed South Africa’s support for WTO reforms to ensure developing economies move up the value chain. He also called for United Nations reform to make it more inclusive and representative, while backing Brazil’s appeal for a ceasefire in Gaza and a two-state solution for Palestine.
As part of its G20 Presidency, South Africa has launched a committee led by Nobel Laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz to study global wealth inequality and present solutions to world leaders. Ramaphosa urged BRICS to shift from “crisis management to strategic action” and finalise the BRICS Economic Partnership Strategy 2030 to deliver sustainable, mutually beneficial trade.
