Deputy Minister Godlimpi Advocates for Stronger Multilateralism at BRICS Meeting

South Africa's Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry, and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, highlighted the negative impact of geopolitical fragmentation on global supply chains at the 14th BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting. He emphasized the need for stronger multilateralism, WTO reforms, and joint value chains to promote industrialization and Africa's development within the global economy.

At the 14th BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting in Moscow, South Africa's Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry, and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, cautioned against the detrimental impact of geopolitical fragmentation on global supply chains.

"Global fragmentation, driven by geopolitical frictions, threatens the resilience of supply chains and could reverse the progress made by developing countries," said Godlimpi. He urged the defense of foundational multilateral principles for meaningful development outcomes.

Godlimpi stressed the importance of building joint value chains to promote industrialization and integrate BRICS nations beneficially into the global economy. He supported WTO reforms to strengthen the multilateral trading system and protect developing countries. Noting Africa's significant trade ties with BRICS, he advocated for enhanced mineral beneficiation to support decarbonization and add value to Africa's resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)