Globalization-Driven Structural Transformation in BRICS Economies: Trade Competitiveness, Technological Innovation, and Intra-Bloc Dependency Dynamics

This study investigates the interplay between globalization-driven structural transformations, technological innovation, and intra-bloc trade dependencies within BRICS economies (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) from 2008 to 2023, a critical nexus in an era of de-globalization and techno-nationalism. BRICS, collectively accounting for 31.5% of global GDP, faces paradoxes: while leveraging global value chains, it grapples with asymmetric technological dependencies and commodity export vulnerabilities. Existing literature lacks an integrated framework to analyze these dynamics, particularly the role of institutional variations and Sino-centric trade networks. Using CiteSpace bibliometric analysis of WoS and CNKI publications, the study maps thematic clusters and temporal trends, contrasting global systemic perspectives (WoS) with China-centric policy narratives (CNKI). Empirical analysis employs Pearson correlation to quantify relationships between R&D intensity, patent applications, and trade volume, alongside intra-BRICS trade dependency metrics. Key findings reveal stark asymmetries: China’s state-led innovation ecosystem demonstrates a strong positive correlation between R&D intensity (r = 0.935) and high-tech exports, while India’s “innovation paradox” (r = 0.768 for patents, r = -0.372 for R&D intensity) reflects fragmented commercialization. Russia’s defense-centric R&D shows weak patent-trade linkages (r = 0.109), tied to resource-dependent exports. Intra-bloc trade dependencies are asymmetric, with Brazil (31.51%), Russia (27.77%), and South Africa (25.65%) highly reliant on China, compared to India’s low dependency (2.38%). The study underscores the need for context-specific policies to address structural inequalities, emphasizing institutional coordination for technology transfer and inclusive growth. By bridging global and local perspectives, this research advances understanding of BRICS’ dual identity as both beneficiaries and challengers of globalization, offering insights for policymakers to optimize innovation ecosystems and mitigate asymmetric interdependencies.