South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on BRICS nations to ensure that increased trade and investment within the bloc lead to more manufacturing and real economic development in Africa.

Ramaphosa made the call on Saturday while addressing the BRICS Business Forum Leaders’ Dialogue in New Delhi, India, ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

He stressed that for the partnership to be meaningful, it must move beyond the export of raw materials and focus on building industries that create jobs and add value locally.

The South African leader said governments and businesses across BRICS must work together to create new opportunities for production, direct investment and stronger economic ties.

According to him, Africa’s large population, resources and growing markets present a major opportunity for BRICS countries to deepen cooperation in ways that benefit both sides.

Ramaphosa also called for greater investment in key sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, technology and mineral processing.

He noted that these areas are critical to support industrialization and sustainable economic growth across developing countries within and outside the bloc.

The President argued that Africa should not remain only a supplier of raw minerals and agricultural products, but must be positioned to process and manufacture goods for export.

He said BRICS can play a leading role in financing infrastructure projects that will connect markets, reduce the cost of doing business, and unlock intra-African trade.

Ramaphosa further urged BRICS business leaders to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, to expand production and build regional value chains.

He emphasized that partnership between the public and private sectors is essential to drive skills development, innovation and technology transfer needed for long-term growth.

The South African President concluded that if BRICS commits to investment that builds factories, energy systems and digital infrastructure, the bloc can help reshape the global economy in favor of developing nations.

The 18th BRICS Summit is expected to deliberate on trade, finance, and development cooperation among Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.