BRICS news | Plan to create a digital map of member states' economic zones; Connecting Iran’s banking network to BRICS members on the agenda

Pars Today – Russia proposed the creation of an Ethnic-Gastronomic Tourism Association during a BRICS working group meeting.

According to Pars Today, citing BRICS TV Network, Russia introduced the proposal to establish an "Ethnic-Gastronomic Tourism Association" at the latest BRICS working group session.

Nikita Kondratyev, Director of Multilateral Economic Cooperation at Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development, stated that this initiative would enhance collaboration between governments and the private sector.

He added: "The cultural diversity of BRICS member states is a competitive advantage for attracting tourists."

Predictions indicate that the ethnic-gastronomic (ethno-culinary) tourism industry will exceed $1 trillion in value by 2025.

Additionally, at the Kazan Economic Forum, a proposal was made to develop a digital map of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in BRICS+ countries. This map would allow investors to access comprehensive data on business conditions and incentives in each zone.

Mohamed Aboeldahab, Director of Suez Canal Economic Zone, emphasized that Egypt could become a key player in BRICS cooperation through this initiative.

Mikhail Labudin, Director of Russia’s Special Economic Zones Association, also suggested creating a common methodology to evaluate these zones and assess their investment appeal. Once finalized, the proposal will be submitted to the Russian Presidential Office.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Iran’s Central Bank announced that, in line with the government’s policy to strengthen political ties with neighboring nations and BRICS members, efforts are underway to connect Iran’s Shetab banking system to Russia’s MIR and extend it to all BRICS members and regional countries.

MG