Lucknow, August 2: India will host the meeting of the heads of the National Statistical Offices (NSOs) of BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—from August 3 to 4 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
India’s presidency of BRICS in 2026 is guided by the overarching theme of “Building Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability.” According to a statement, India has adopted the theme of “Quality Statistics as a Driver of Change” under the BRICS statistical program. This reflects a steadfast commitment to data quality, innovation, effective dissemination, and people-centered statistical systems. It also addresses the growing reliance on official statistics to support rapid technological advancements, increasing demand for high-frequency and comprehensive data, and evidence-based, sustainable, and inclusive development.
Modern BRICS policymaking relies on robust data to monitor development, guide decisions, and foster mutual understanding. Since 2010, member countries have published the Joint Statistical Publication (JSP) and the Snapshot BRICS JSP (launched in 2020) to provide accessible and harmonized data. Over time, BRICS statistical cooperation has evolved from basic data collection to in-depth coordination on data standards, harmonization, and innovation for policymakers, researchers, and the general public. Two main programs on statistical matters are held annually, along with auxiliary programs, including technical meetings of NSOs and meetings of NSO heads.
A technical meeting was held on April 16-17, 2026, primarily to facilitate discussions on the chapters of the BRICS JSP and Snapshot BRICS JSP. The focal point of the discussions was to develop a mutually agreed framework for the JSP and Snapshot 2026, allocate responsibilities, and set deadlines for contributions from each NSO.
The goal of the BRICS statistics track is to achieve results in priority areas, including strengthening key BRICS statistical products, innovating and improving national statistical systems, enhancing data dissemination and accessibility, and fortifying macroeconomic and regional statistics.
The meeting of the heads of the National Statistical Offices of BRICS countries is expected to include representatives from Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Its aim is to further strengthen collaboration in areas such as data dissemination, innovation in statistical systems, and the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
Additionally, the statement mentioned that two half-day auxiliary programs will be held alongside the meeting, focusing on highlighting the potential for administrative and AI readiness in the evolving data ecosystem, with participation from NSOs, policymakers, academics, think tanks, civil society organizations, and technical experts.
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