BRICS 2026 Summit May Catalyse Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market

The BRICS bloc is exploring coordinated action on sustainable aviation fuel as member nations seek to address the aviation sector's substantial carbon emissions. By aligning SAF standards and certification frameworks, the grouping could establish a unified approach that facilitates international commerce in sustainable fuels while supporting broader climate goals.

Key elements under consideration include standardising SAF feedstock mapping, establishing consistent carbon tracking mechanisms, and creating regulatory frameworks that enable seamless cross-border trade. Such coordination would address a significant gap in the current global aviation fuel market, where fragmented standards and varying national regulations complicate the development and scaling of SAF production.

The aviation industry accounts for approximately 2-3 per cent of global carbon emissions, with projections suggesting this share will increase as air travel expands. Sustainable aviation fuels derived from renewable sources, waste materials, and alternative feedstocks are considered critical to decarbonising the sector while maintaining operational efficiency.

BRICS alignment on SAF standards could position member nations—collectively representing significant aviation markets—as leaders in the sustainable fuel transition. Such coordination may also create competitive advantages for domestic producers while supporting developing economies' participation in the growing global SAF market, which is projected to expand substantially over the coming decade.