BRICS is an acronym that refers to a group of five major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. These countries are known for their significant influence on regional and global affairs, and they have formed a coalition to enhance cooperation and collaboration in various fields. The BRICS grouping was originally known as “BRIC” before the inclusion of South Africa in 2010.

Here is an overview of each member of BRICS:

1. **Brazil:**
– Brazil is the largest country in South America and is known for its diverse culture and natural resources. It has a sizable economy, with strengths in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Brazil is also recognized for its contributions to renewable energy, particularly biofuels.

2. **Russia:**
– Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning both Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. It is rich in natural resources, particularly oil and gas, which play a crucial role in its economy. Russia has a significant geopolitical influence and is a major player in global energy markets.

3. **India:**
– India is a large and diverse country in South Asia. It has a rapidly growing economy, driven by sectors such as information technology, services, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. India is known for its young and dynamic population.

4. **China:**
– China is the most populous country globally and has the world’s second-largest economy. It has undergone rapid industrialization and urbanization, becoming a major manufacturing hub. China is a key player in global trade and has made substantial investments in infrastructure and technology.

5. **South Africa:**
– South Africa is located at the southern tip of the African continent. It has a diverse economy with strengths in mining, agriculture, and services. South Africa is known for its natural resources, including gold and diamonds. It joined the BRICS group in 2010, expanding the coalition’s representation to Africa.

The BRICS grouping was established to promote cooperation on political, economic, and strategic issues among its member countries. The annual BRICS summit provides a platform for leaders to discuss and coordinate policies on various global issues, including economic development, trade, and geopolitical challenges. While the member countries have diverse economic structures and levels of development, they share common interests in promoting multipolarity in international relations and advocating for reforms in global governance institutions.

In addition to the annual summit, BRICS countries have established mechanisms for collaboration, including the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA). The NDB aims to fund infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging economies, while the CRA provides a financial safety net in case of balance of payments problems.

The BRICS group reflects the changing dynamics of the global economy and international relations, with these major emerging economies playing an increasingly prominent role on the world stage.