BRICS Members in 2026: Which Country Has the Highest GDP and Where Does India Rank?

The group of BRICS countries has grown considerably, with 11 leading emerging economies belonging to the group, coming from Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East regions. In light of the upcoming BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, the economic power of member countries has turned into a matter of current affairs.

From all 11 member states, China is the leading economy with the largest nominal GDP, followed by India that takes the second place.

Which BRICS Country Has the Largest GDP?

China is the country with the highest nominal GDP among BRICS countries in 2026, and it makes up $20.8 trillion.

The economic power of the Chinese country is based on such factors as the country’s industry, export economy, transportation network, and international business.

India is the second economy of BRICS with a nominal GDP of $4.15 trillion.

BRICS Country	Approx. Nominal GDP	BRICS Rank
China	$20.8 trillion	1st
India	$4.15 trillion	2nd
Russia	$2.65 trillion	3rd
Brazil	$2.64 trillion	4th
Indonesia	$1.54 trillion	5th
Saudi Arabia	$1.39 trillion	6th
UAE	$620 billion	7th
South Africa	$480 billion	8th
Egypt	$430 billion	9th
Iran	$300 billion	10th
Ethiopia	$200 billion	11th

How Does India Compare in BRICS Economies?

India is the second-largest economy among BRICS countries based on nominal GDP.

With an estimated GDP of $4.15 trillion, India stands tall above Russia and Brazil, both having an estimated GDP of approximately $2.6 trillion each.

The significance of India lies not only in the size of its economy but also in its potential for growth. With a large domestic market and continuously growing manufacturing and service sectors, India is a significant player in the global economy, with increasing investments and participation in global trade.

India has recorded a growth rate of 7.8% in the real GDP of Q1 of FY 2026-27, reflecting the strength of the Indian economy.

What Are the 11 BRICS Countries?

BRICS has grown from its five founding member countries. The 11 member countries of BRICS in 2026 are,

1. Brazil
2. Russia
3. India
4. China
5. South Africa
6. Egypt
7. Ethiopia
8. Iran
9. Saudi Arabia
10. United Arab Emirates
11. Indonesia

Why Does India Hold the Second Place?

India being the second-largest economy in the BRICS countries adds much weight to its economic and diplomatic positions in the alliance.

China is still bigger in terms of nominal GDP, yet the Indian economy grows very fast. Its immense consumer market, thriving digital economy, service sector, and involvement in global production chains make it one of the most important economies that will define the future of the BRICS block.

India is also an important player when it comes to talks about trade, investments, development finances, technologies, and alternatives to international payment systems.