The North-South Corridor: A New Axis for Russia-Tanzania Trade Within the Beyond-BRICS Framework

The international trade landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the global shift towards a multipolar world order and the strategic reorientation of Russian foreign economic policy. This study investigates the potential of the North-South Corridor (NSC) as a new axis for Russia-Tanzania trade within the beyond-BRICS framework. The research is motivated by Russia’s imperative to diversify trade routes and partners amidst external sanctions and its strategic Pivot to the East, coupled with Tanzania’s robust economic and demographic growth, which creates a stable demand for key Russian exports like wheat and fertilizers. The study employs a three-phase methodological approach: (1) a comprehensive analysis of Tanzania’s foreign trade potential and economic structure; (2) the development of a conceptual multimodal logistics model connecting Makhachkala (Russia) to Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) via Iranian ports and railways; and (3) a formalization of the projected economic effects and a risk assessment based on open-source intelligence (OSINT). A detailed factor analysis identifies and proposes mitigation strategies for environmental, political, technical, and economic risks associated with the proposed route. The findings indicate that despite not being the shortest path, the proposed corridor offers a viable alternative by mitigating acute geopolitical risks prevalent in traditional maritime chokepoints like the Suez Canal. The economic formalization demonstrates substantial mutual benefits, including reduced logistics costs, increased market competition, an expanded tax base, and facilitated access to regional markets in Eurasia and Africa. The study concludes that the development of this trade link is strategically advisable and proposes key recommendations for its realization, including the establishment of a Free Economic Zone and the formation of dedicated joint logistics ventures. This initiative represents a concrete step towards a more resilient and multipolar global trade architecture.