Arapova E.Ya.Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation arapova_katrin@mail.ru
Chkoniya A.-M.E.Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation chk.annamaria@gmail.com
Importance The article discusses the issues of trading capacity of the BRICS countries, identification of potential opportunities for increased turnover in line with their competitive advantages and determination of key problems impeding greater trade. Objectives The paper aims to assess the BRICS trade-related capacity, identify the factors that promote and hinder the development of bilateral and trans-regional trade. Methods For the study, we used a systems approach applying the methods of logical and comparative analyses, and qualitative and quantitative analyses of statistical data. Results We determined the key factors that promote and hinder the expansion of mutual trade of the BRICS Member countries; assessed the current state and sectoral structure of bilateral trade ties, as well as prospects for expanding trade interaction. On the basis of calculations and analysis of a wide range of indices and coefficients characterizing the state of mutual trade, we describe the prospects for expanding the trans-regional trade. Conclusions We conclude that the BRICS Member countries are eager to expand commercial ties with those BRICS-format partners, which have not yet developed their sufficient capacity for cooperation. This, in the long term, may lead to an easing of asymmetric trade links.
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