The BRICS Agriculture Working Group (AWG) convened for its first meeting of the year on February 20 and 21, bringing together representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The discussions were hosted by Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Family Farming (MDA), the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MPA), and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE). The primary focus was on addressing the pressing agricultural challenges faced by member nations, particularly in light of climate change, soil degradation, and food security concerns.
A press conference followed the meeting, held at the Federal Data Processing Service (Serpro) headquarters in Brasília. During the briefing, Luis Rua, Secretary of Trade and International Relations at MAPA, summarized the discussions and highlighted Brazil’s significant role in global agricultural affairs in 2025. He noted that Brazil would not only host the BRICS Summit but also COP30, lead Mercosur, and facilitate key discussions with agriculture ministers from Africa and the Inter-American Board.
Addressing Global Agricultural Concerns
The working group reviewed a draft document that will serve as the basis for a joint declaration at the upcoming BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in April. The discussions underscored the urgency of tackling a wide range of agricultural issues, including sustainable farming practices, trade expansion, economic inequalities, and food price volatility.
In addition to these topics, significant attention was given to the implementation of electronic certification systems. These digital tools are expected to enhance the traceability and security of agricultural trade, reducing processing times and ensuring the safety of food products exchanged among BRICS nations. The introduction of such technologies marks a step toward more efficient and transparent trade practices, benefiting both producers and consumers.
The AWG also delved into discussions on climate change mitigation strategies, particularly through initiatives linked to COP30. One key area of focus was pasture degradation and the need for large-scale restoration efforts. Brazil’s National Program for Converting Degraded Pastures into Sustainable Systems (PNCPD) was highlighted as a model initiative aimed at transforming unproductive land into sustainable agricultural spaces.
India’s Role in BRICS Agricultural Cooperation
India has been playing a crucial role in BRICS agricultural initiatives, bringing its expertise in sustainable farming, agrotech advancements, and food security policies to the table. As a country with a vast agricultural sector supporting millions of livelihoods, India has been advocating for knowledge-sharing programs among BRICS members to promote innovative farming techniques and efficient resource management.
India’s contributions to the BRICS Agriculture Working Group align with its domestic efforts to enhance food security and boost agricultural productivity. The nation has actively participated in discussions related to climate-resilient crops, digital solutions for small-scale farmers, and trade agreements that ensure fair pricing for agricultural commodities.
Moreover, India’s expertise in bio-inputs and organic farming has been recognized as a valuable asset in the collective effort to promote sustainable agriculture. The country is expected to play a significant role in shaping the 2025-2028 BRICS agricultural action plan, particularly in areas related to bioenergy production and regenerative farming practices.
Laying the Groundwork for Future Collaboration
As part of the roadmap for the coming years, the AWG is developing a strategic action plan for 2025-2028. The plan includes several key initiatives, such as strengthening aquatic food systems, advancing low-carbon farming innovations, restoring degraded land, and expanding the use of bioinputs and bioenergy production.
A series of virtual conferences will be held on February 27-28 and March 6-7 to refine these strategies, followed by in-person meetings on March 12-14 and April 14-15. The discussions will culminate in a field visit and bilateral meetings in Brasília on April 16, leading up to the highly anticipated Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting on April 17.
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Strengthening Agricultural Trade and Food Security
BRICS collectively accounts for 30% of the world’s farmland and holds a leading position in the global export of key agricultural commodities such as meat, rice, soybeans, wheat, and corn. In 2024, Brazil alone recorded agricultural exports worth $165 billion, with 41% of this trade directed toward BRICS countries. The economic significance of this partnership underscores the necessity for stronger trade agreements, infrastructure development, and policies that support equitable agricultural growth.
The AWG is particularly focused on ensuring food security and nutrition across BRICS nations. By fostering collaboration in research, technological innovation, and sustainable resource management, the group aims to address disparities in agricultural productivity and enhance the resilience of food systems.
The Road Ahead for BRICS Agriculture
With multiple high-profile events on the horizon, including COP30 and the BRICS Summit, the coming year presents an opportunity for member nations to deepen their agricultural cooperation. The outcomes of these discussions will shape policies that impact millions of farmers, traders, and consumers within the BRICS bloc and beyond.
The Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in April is expected to finalize agreements that will set the tone for future agricultural trade and sustainability efforts. As BRICS continues to strengthen its position in global agriculture, collaborative initiatives like the AWG will play a crucial role in ensuring a more food-secure and economically stable future for its member nations.