BRICS 2023 Summit: Growth and Its Implications for Food Security
Written on
Overview of the BRICS 2023 Summit
This week, the BRICS 2023 Summit took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, with significant coverage from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), featuring detailed interviews and insights regarding the member nations impacted by BRICS.
BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is recognized as a leading coalition within the emerging markets framework. Below are some key takeaways from this year's summit:
- The group is pushing towards a unified currency and aims to strengthen connections among emerging economies.
- Chairman Xi Jinping emphasized the need for political and security collaboration, while President Putin voiced strong opposition to sanctions.
- The dynamics between the United States and China are becoming increasingly significant within the BRICS context, with heightened competition for influence in emerging markets.
- Notably, Xi and Putin were absent from the summit, allowing Brazil and India to take the spotlight.
- Discussions included "agricultural policies" in response to ongoing challenges in airlift logistics.
As the expansion of BRICS takes precedence, new members from Saudi Arabia to Argentina have been welcomed into the fold this year. However, this growth raises concerns about food security. While the focus is on BRICS' achievements in attracting emerging markets, the future stability of these nations remains precarious, particularly regarding energy and food security.
Addressing Food Security Concerns
Amid the BRICS Summit, India recently declared a ban on sugar exports to international markets, a repercussion of lingering COVID-19 policies. Many resource-producing countries are opting for export bans to stabilize domestic prices and supply chains.
In Southeast Asia, nations are grappling with food security issues. The surge in agricultural commodity prices during the pandemic has disrupted food imports for countries like Thailand and the Philippines. Rice, a staple food item in this region, has seen escalating costs, impacting producers in India and Vietnam, which in turn affects global markets.
Interestingly, while India celebrated its achievement as the fourth country to land on the moon, the sugar export ban underscores a significant vulnerability. The accomplishment may impress fellow BRICS nations, but it does little to address the pressing needs of emerging markets.
As we analyze the implications of the BRICS Summit 2023, it becomes evident that discussions surrounding food security should take center stage, especially considering that many prospective BRICS members are at risk of a global food crisis.
Future Considerations for Emerging Markets
Looking ahead, several questions arise regarding the relations of emerging markets:
- Will African nations gravitate towards closer ties with the United States or Russia in the coming years?
- How will other state actors like China and Russia influence Brazil's fertilizer diplomacy?
To delve deeper into these questions, I invite you to explore my latest analysis featured in The Diplomatic Pouch, the online magazine of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University.
The analysis, titled "Non-aligned Powers and Food Security: Unpacking Brazil's Fertilizer Diplomacy under the Backdrop of the Black Sea Grain Initiative," offers insights into Brazil's approach amidst the ongoing global food challenges.
The Analysis Breakdown
Impact of the Ukraine War on Brazil's Fertilizer Supplies
The conflict in Ukraine has significantly influenced Brazil's fertilizer supply chain, prompting diplomatic efforts to secure imports from the Middle East and North Africa.
Fertilizer as a Tool for Diplomatic Relations
Brazil's non-aligned status necessitates a careful approach to utilizing global commodities as instruments for diplomatic engagement.
Influence of Lula's Administration on Foreign Policy
Lula's recent engagement with China signals Brazil's reinvigorated role on the global stage, with trade relations taking precedence.
Conclusion: Brazil's Future Role in Global Affairs
Brazil is poised to enhance its influence within the developing world, aligning its foreign policy with the economic interests of emerging markets.
BRICS Summit 2023 Video Insights
The BRICS Summit 2023 has significant implications for Africa and the global order. Here’s a video that analyzes the potential impacts of this summit.
In addition, the BRICS Summit's live coverage reveals the invitation of six new countries, including Saudi Arabia and Iran, to join the group.
Joshua Mayfield is a legal analyst and language consultant fluent in Mandarin Chinese, French, and Russian. His research in international relations focuses on U.S.-Australia relations and the Indo-Pacific strategy. He holds a master's degree in law from Shanghai's East China Normal University, specializing in China studies. He also manages a publication on Medium, "Areas & Producers," covering global markets and the latest news in international business.