Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), on Friday underscored the need for collective action to shape the future of MSMEs across BRICS nations. Manjhi reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening economic cooperation within the bloc and promoting greater knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration among BRICS member countries. "MSMEs are central to achieving inclusive and sustainable economic development. The challenges facing enterprises today whether related to financing, technology adoption, sustainability or market access require collaborative solutions. BRICS countries possess immense strengths and complementary capabilities. Through continued dialogue and cooperation, we can build a robust framework that empowers MSMEs to become drivers of innovation, exports and employment," said Manjhi.The Union Ministry of MSME hosted the inaugural BRICS MSME Forum 2026 in Agra on June 19, bringing together government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, and private-sector stakeholders from BRICS member and partner countries. The forum served as a platform to discuss strategies for strengthening MSME ecosystems, promoting sustainable growth, and enhancing the global competitiveness of small businesses across the BRICS bloc.Bhupendra Chaudhary, Minister for MSME, Uttar Pradesh (Pic courtesy: PIB)Bhupendra Chaudhary, Minister for MSME, Uttar Pradesh, underscored the state's strong commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and accelerating industrial development. He highlighted various initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses, encouraging innovation, and creating a conducive environment for enterprise growth and job creation. Bharat Khera, Secretary, Ministry of MSME, underscored the pivotal role of MSMEs in building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economies. He highlighted the sector's contribution to employment generation, innovation, and economic growth, stressing the need for continued support to strengthen MSME ecosystems. Bharat Khera, Secretary, Ministry of MSME (Pic courtesy: PIB)“MSMEs are not merely economic units; they are engines of innovation, employment, entrepreneurship and regional development. As BRICS economies continue to expand their global influence, there is immense potential for collaboration in areas such as technology adoption, sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation, skilling, and market access. Through stronger partnerships and knowledge-sharing, we can build MSME ecosystems that are resilient, competitive and globally connected,” said Khera. Dr Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, Ministry of MSME (Pic courtesy: PIB)Setting the stage for the Forum, Dr Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, Ministry of MSME, presented the key outcomes of the three BRICS SME Working Group meetings. He outlined the major priorities and areas of cooperation that have emerged through sustained dialogue and collaboration among BRICS member countries. The Forum followed the 3rd BRICS SME Working Group Meeting. The Forum also featured presentations by government representatives from BRICS member and partner countries, who showcased best practices and successful initiatives aimed at strengthening MSME ecosystems. The discussions highlighted strategies to foster entrepreneurship, improve productivity, and expand MSMEs' access to global markets through policy support, innovation, and international cooperation.