The global economic landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift, with the BRICS+ bloc leading the charge. With combined purchasing power parity (PPP) GDP of $77 trillion in 2025, these nations are rapidly reshaping global trade, financial markets, and cultural trends. As their influence grows, a new force is emerging at the intersection of economics and culture: the fashion industry.

Recognizing the immense potential within these fast-growing markets, fashion is now taking a pivotal role in strengthening international ties and driving creative collaboration. This transformative movement is spearheaded by influential events like the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, a gathering that not only showcases organizational excellence but also serves as a catalyst for a truly global fashion community.

The epicenter of creativity and commerce

Moscow will host the BRICS+ Fashion Summit from August 28-30, 2025. The event will bring together more than 60 nations to explore the future of fashion. It will serve as a vital platform for cultural diplomacy, where creative industries are leveraged to reflect and amplify the evolving values of a new global order. The summit will feature a vibrant tapestry of voices from countries including India, China, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, the UAE, and Indonesia, alongside participants from Europe and the United States. This diverse representation highlights the event’s commitment to building bridges and fostering dialogue between emerging markets and established fashion players. By focusing on major industry themes, the summit aims to build an environment where innovative projects and partnerships can flourish.

Emerging markets take the lead

A central theme at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit is the powerful rise of emerging markets in the global fashion economy. Fueled by expanding internet infrastructure, rising disposable incomes, and a youthful population keenly attuned to contemporary trends, regions like Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are experiencing a surge of interest in fashion.

As per a Bain & Company report, outpacing both Europe and the US, India's e-commerce fashion market is expected to double by 2027. These regions are actively shaping trends and setting the pace for the rest of the world. According to Antonio Maurizio Grioli, Dean, Pearl Academy, the summit cultivates a fertile ground for projects that strengthen the fashion economy, ranging from local artisan workshops to global brands. The event also provides a critical platform for countries like Türkiye to strengthen economic ties, explore new export channels, and showcase their unique design talent and cultural richness, as noted by Cem Altan, President of the International Apparel Federation (IAF).

Towards a sustainable and technological future

Another critical focus of the summit is the intersection of sustainability and technology. Today’s consumers are more environmentally conscious than ever before. McKinsey’s research reveals, 73 per cent of global consumers are willing to change their purchasing habits to reduce environmental impact. This consumer-driven shift is fuelling the growth of brands committed to eco-conscious and ethical practices, as per NielsenIQ data. The potential for innovation, therefore, is at the crossroads of these two crucial trends. Jay Ishak, CEO and Co-Founder, International Fashion Chamber Malaysia, emphasizes, BRICS+ Fashion Summit provides a platform for emerging markets to contribute to global fashion trends and advocate for ethical practices. The summit elevates their voices, helping them collectively define their role in an industry that is rapidly evolving.

Shaping the global fashion narrative

More than just a showcase, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit serves as a collaborative space for community-building. Its ever-expanding scope and focus on meaningful dialogue exemplify how emerging economies and established players can work together to build a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for fashion. As it continues to grow, this influential gathering ensures that the industry’s future will be defined by cooperation and a rich diversity of voices from around the world.