Early-phase oncology clinical trials in BRICS nations: Trends, gaps, and strategic opportunities

The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are increasingly central to global oncology research, yet their contributions to early-phase cancer trials remain uneven.

This retrospective study analyzed 6786 Phase I and II cancer trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov from 1995 to 2023 to assess trends across BRICS countries.

China emerged as a dominant force, showing rapid growth in nationally led trials. In contrast, Brazil, Russia, India, and South Africa relied heavily on international collaborations and exhibited underrepresentation in trials targeting their most burdensome cancer types. Overall, clinical trial activity across most BRICS nations appears more aligned with global industry trends than with local health priorities.

These disparities underscore the need for strategic investment in national research infrastructure, stronger public-private partnerships, and policies that better align oncology research with population-specific needs. Enhancing innovation ecosystems in BRICS countries could accelerate equitable access to cancer treatments and bolster their role in shaping the future of global oncology.

Policymakers of BRICS nations are encouraged to adopt frameworks that prioritize locally relevant cancers, accelerate trial approval timelines, and support sustainable innovation ecosystems. While shared challenges exist, BRICS countries may benefit from: (1) streamlining regulatory processes for faster trial approvals; (2) fostering academic-industry partnerships; (3) prioritizing trials for high-burden cancers; and (4) incentivizing the development of locally produced therapies. A tailored approach, rather than a one-size-fits-all model, will be essential to leverage the BRICS platform as a driver of equitable innovation in cancer care.