Daniel Azevedo, global advantage leader at BCG, discusses the evolving BRICS nations and how global companies can thrive in a shifting economic landscape. Topics include leveraging emerging markets, the achievements of BRICS collaboration, utilizing BRICS supply chains for global competitiveness, and navigating uncertainties in the global business landscape.
The expansion of the BRICS group to include additional countries like Egypt, Iran, and the UAE aims to create a stronger economic force with potential global influence.
The BRICS group's progress in establishing a new development bank and increasing intra-group trade signals a shift in the global economic and political landscape, presenting new opportunities for businesses.
Deep dives
BRICS-plus expanding with new member countries
The BRICS group, initially consisting of large, fast-growing economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, expanded its influence by including new members like South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and UAE. This expansion aims to create a more significant economic grouping that collaborates on various initiatives, potentially shifting the balance of power in global institutions towards the South.
Achievements and Progress of the BRICS group
The BRICS group's notable achievement includes establishing a $100 billion new development bank for infrastructure projects, of which one-third has already been deployed. Additionally, intra-BRICS trade has shown rapid growth, outpacing trade with G7 countries. The group's progress demonstrates enhanced economic integration and utilization of cross-opportunities, signaling a shift in the global economic and political landscape.
Opportunities for businesses and the impact on global markets
Businesses outside the BRICS countries can benefit by adopting a multi-local approach, leveraging the evolving economic frameworks and supply chains. Embracing the opportunities in BRICS markets, including diversifying supply chains and exploring non-dollar denominated transactions, can enhance global business resilience and competitiveness. Adapting to the changing global business dynamics by understanding and utilizing local market conditions can unlock new growth prospects for multinational corporations.
The original BRIC acronym came to life in 2001 to describe the untapped economic potential of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. This informal grouping of nations has since coalesced into a rising economic force, especially since the entry of South Africa in 2010 and Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates at the start of this year. Daniel Azevedo—leader of BCG’s global advantage practice in Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Africa —explains how global companies can navigate a world in which economic power is heading south.