India is positioning itself to leverage its pharmaceutical and digital health sectors within the BRICS framework, emphasizing innovation and regulatory cooperation as key to unlocking new market opportunities.
As India prepares to host the BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting in Chandigarh, the focus is shifting from traditional public health to integrating digital health, AI, and pharmaceutical innovation. This shift raises the question of whether these discussions can translate into tangible benefits for Indian pharmaceutical and health-tech companies.
India's pharmaceutical exports, valued at approximately $25.89 billion in 2025, already see significant trade with BRICS nations like South Africa and Brazil. However, deeper cooperation is needed to enhance market access and navigate the regulatory landscape effectively. The recent approval of Sun Pharma's generic semaglutide in South Africa illustrates the importance of regulatory changes over mere membership in BRICS for market entry.
The digital health sector presents emerging opportunities, particularly through discussions on interoperable data systems and AI in healthcare. However, varying healthcare regulations and data protocols among BRICS countries pose challenges to seamless collaboration. The potential for joint research and innovation in AI and biotechnology is promising, yet the transition from policy to practice remains uncertain.
Ultimately, while BRICS offers a framework for potential growth in India’s healthcare sectors, the real test lies in whether these policy discussions can lead to practical solutions that facilitate cross-border operations. Indian companies should view BRICS not as an immediate market but as a long-term platform for developing new business avenues.