Ramaphosa warns BRICS against a new raw-material trap for Africa

Source: Mail & Guardian | Original Published At: 2026-09-11 20:45:18 UTC

Key Points

• President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the BRICS Business Forum Leaders’ Dialogue in New Delhi ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.
• He warned that expanded BRICS should not recreate the global divide in which Africa supplies raw minerals while manufacturing and value addition occur elsewhere.
• Ramaphosa called for investment in local manufacturing, mineral beneficiation, industrial technology, energy systems, infrastructure, and logistics.
• He said increasing trade between BRICS members is not enough unless it builds productive capacity in developing economies.
• Around 130 South African business leaders attended to strengthen trade, investment, and commercial ties with BRICS member and partner countries.
• Ramaphosa urged the BRICS Business Council to move beyond consultation and help turn proposals and partnerships into commercial relationships.
• The remarks set the stage for an India-South Africa Business Leadership Roundtable focused on bilateral trade and investment.
• Ramaphosa also held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed at renewing high-level engagement and discussing mutual concerns.