Q&A With Distinguished Lawyer Harvansh Chawla, Chairman Of BRICS CCI: Driving India’s Role In Global Trade

The appointment of Harvansh Chawla as Chairman of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BRICS CCI) is a noteworthy development that highlights India's increasing influence in international trade blocs. With a robust background in international trade law and a sharp focus on fostering inclusive growth, Chawla brings a bold vision to the table—one that emphasizes deeper economic integration, innovation-led development, and strategic business partnerships across the BRICS and BRICS Plus nations. In this exclusive interview, he outlines his roadmap for accelerating cross-border collaborations, reducing trade barriers, and positioning BRICS CCI as a formidable player in the global economic landscape.

Q. Congratulations on your appointment as Chairman of BRICS CCI. What is your vision for the organization, and how will you strengthen economic ties among BRICS Plus nations?

A. Thank you. My vision is to position BRICS CCI as a catalyst for inclusive growth and innovation, driving trade and investment across Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and BRICS Plus nations like the UAE and Egypt. We’ll strengthen ties through B2B platforms, trade fairs, and policy advocacy. For instance, the UAE Chapter launch in 2024 catalyzed trade corridors, facilitating deals in logistics and technology, while our Startup Forum has connected Indian MSMEs with BRICS markets, fostering agreements in agriculture and IT.

Q. How will your expertise in international trade law enhance the competitiveness of BRICS economies?

A. My background in trade law, honed at K.R. Chawla & Co.,(Law Firm based out of Delhi) equips me to streamline regulations and formalize legal frameworks. This ensures Indian businesses secure competitive trade deals, like pharmaceutical exports to Ethiopia and tech collaborations with China. By harmonizing trade standards, BRICS CCI will boost the bloc’s global edge, leveraging India’s $4.187 trillion economy and 6.5% growth forecast for 2025.

Q. What specific initiatives will you prioritize to promote innovation and reduce trade barriers?

A. We’ll prioritize the BRICS MSME Accelerator Program and Startup Summit to catalyze funding and market access for Indian startups, particularly in AI and renewables. Our advocacy for lower tariffs and digital trade platforms has already facilitated export agreements, such as Indian agro-processing deals with Brazil. The Chandigarh Chapter launch in 2024 further enabled MSMEs to secure manufacturing contracts with BRICS Plus nations.

Q. How will BRICS CCI foster cross-border partnerships, especially with the diverse priorities of BRICS Plus nations?

A. Through trade summits and B2B lounges, we’ll catalyze joint ventures in key sectors like tech, agriculture, and infrastructure. The UAE Chapter’s 2024 initiatives, for example, formalized logistics partnerships with firms like DP World GCC. By tailoring projects to mutual benefits, we ensure alignment despite diverse priorities, as seen in Indo-Russian tech agreements in 2024.

Q. What role will BRICS CCI play in addressing trade barriers in sectors like technology and pharmaceuticals?

A. We’ll advocate for harmonized standards and simplified customs, enabling deals like Indian generic drug exports to South Africa and Egypt. Our platforms have facilitated tech transfers with China, particularly in AI and Industrial IoT, reducing non-tariff barriers and fostering seamless trade.

Q. How will you navigate geopolitical divisions, such as Russia’s stance on Ukraine, to ensure cohesive collaboration?

A. Our focus remains on shared economic goals. Neutral platforms like trade fairs and the 2024 Indo-Russian trade meeting have formalized tech and manufacturing deals, keeping collaboration cohesive by prioritizing mutual economic benefits.

Q. How will BRICS CCI support India’s Startup India and Aatma Nirbhar Bharat initiatives?

A. We’ll catalyze global market access for startups via the Startup Forum and connect MSMEs to BRICS supply chains, boosting self-reliance. For example, our initiatives have facilitated Indian IT and pharma firms’ entry into markets like Ethiopia, aligning with India’s economic goals.

Q. How will you position BRICS CCI as a global trade leader against Western-dominated institutions?

A. By leveraging BRICS’ 31.5% global GDP share and catalyzing trade through platforms like the UAE Chapter, we’ll showcase viable alternatives. Successful deals in renewables with the UAE and manufacturing with Indonesia prove our global relevance.

Q. What opportunities do you see for collaboration in emerging technologies like AI and renewable energy?

A. Innovation hubs will drive tech transfers in AI and renewables, particularly with China and Russia. The 2025 BRICS Energy Summit will formalize green energy partnerships, leveraging India’s 280 GW solar target by 2030.

Q. How will your commitment to social causes shape BRICS CCI’s agenda?

A. We’ll integrate societal benefits by supporting youth and women-led businesses, catalyzing inclusive trade deals. Our educational exchanges with South Africa and Ethiopia will further empower communities, ensuring sustainable growth.