In a significant shift for global multilateralism, India has officially taken the helm of the BRICS grouping for 2026, following a formal handover from Brazil. This transition occurs against a backdrop of intensified geopolitical tensions, particularly driven by the Donald Trump administration’s aggressive trade policies aimed at curbing the bloc’s influence and punishing members for ties with Russia.
The ceremonial transfer took place on December 12, 2025, during the BRICS Sherpas’ meeting in Brasília. Brazil’s Sherpa, Ambassador Mauricio Lyrio, passed the symbolic gavel—representing sustainability and the enduring bonds of cooperation among BRICS nations—to his Indian counterpart, Ambassador Sudhakar Dalela. Dalela emphasized that India’s leadership would adhere to the core principles of continuity, consolidation, and consensus, while adapting to pressing global challenges and the shifting needs of the Global South.
Although the handover was completed in December, Brazil retained interim oversight until December 31, 2025, with India fully assuming the chairmanship on January 1, 2026.
This year’s presidency is poised to be pivotal for BRICS, as the alliance seeks to broaden its membership and amplify its role in fostering a multipolar world order. India plans to host the 18th BRICS Summit later in 2026, where discussions on economic cooperation, de-dollarization efforts, and enhanced South-South partnerships are expected to take center stage.
However, these ambitions are complicated by external pressures, notably from the United States under President Trump, who has openly criticized BRICS for undermining American economic dominance.
As New Delhi steps into this role, it is simultaneously navigating delicate trade negotiations with Washington. The talks have grown increasingly contentious since the Trump administration imposed a cumulative 50% tariff on Indian exports in August 2025—comprising a 25% reciprocal tariff and an additional 25% punitive levy specifically targeting India’s continued procurement of Russian oil.
This move, effective from August 27, 2025, applies to all Indian-origin goods entering the U.S. and stems from broader U.S. efforts to isolate Russia economically amid ongoing global conflicts.
Recent warnings from Trump and allies, including proposals for tariffs as high as 500%, underscore the administration’s determination to deter such dealings.
These U.S. actions reflect a wider strategy to counter BRICS’ growing clout, including threats of extra tariffs on bloc members pursuing “anti-American” policies like de-dollarization. Analysts suggest that while Trump’s approach aims to weaken the alliance—evident in similar pressures on Brazil—it could inadvertently accelerate BRICS’ push toward alternative financial systems and stronger intra-group ties.
India’s balancing act will be closely monitored, as it seeks to advance BRICS’ agenda without alienating key Western partners. With the Global South’s priorities at the forefront, 2026 could mark a defining chapter in the bloc’s evolution amid these sweeping geopolitical shifts.
