In the rapidly changing landscape of the global economy, data has emerged as a cornerstone—fueling decisions that shape the future of nations and businesses alike. For BRICS+, an alliance of some of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies, data holds the potential to drive revolutionary progress. As this bloc expands, embracing new members and deepening its economic ties, the strategic use of data can elevate BRICS+ to an unassailable position on the global stage. Through data, we hold the power to reimagine currency cooperation, optimise trade, and ignite a new era of business collaboration that transcends borders.

Uniting BRICS+ Through Data-Driven Currency Stability

One of the greatest challenges facing BRICS+ nations is ensuring currency stability amidst the turbulence of shifting global markets. The diversity of our economies, from Russia’s and Saudi Arabia’s reliance on energy exports to Brazil’s agricultural prowess and China’s manufacturing dominance, presents unique pressures on each nation's currency. But within this diversity lies strength, if harnessed correctly.

By leveraging the power of shared data, BRICS+ nations can achieve something truly groundbreaking—an integrated approach to currency stability. A shared data platform could enable real-time insights into global monetary policies and currency fluctuations, allowing BRICS+ to coordinate their responses and even lay the groundwork for a unified digital currency. Imagine a future where businesses within BRICS+ are shielded from exchange rate volatility, where cross-border transactions are seamless and cost-effective. This is not just about reducing dependency on the U.S. dollar; it’s about redefining our collective economic destiny.

The Power of Data to Transform BRICS+ Trade

Trade is the lifeblood of any economy, and BRICS+ nations, accounting for a significant portion of global trade flows, are no exception. Yet, despite our vast potential, trade barriers—logistical, regulatory, and infrastructural—continue to hinder progress. Data is the key to breaking through these barriers and unlocking the full potential of BRICS+.

Imagine a world where BRICS+ nations seamlessly trade with one another, optimising supply chains, reducing inefficiencies, and overcoming bottlenecks. With a comprehensive, data-driven approach to trade, we can achieve this vision. A shared platform could allow us to analyse trade flows, track tariffs, and identify solutions to logistical challenges. India and Brazil could balance agricultural exports with industrial imports, while China could efficiently source raw materials from South Africa and Russia.

This is about more than just increasing trade within the bloc; it’s about reducing reliance on external markets and building a future where BRICS+ nations are not just participants but leaders in the global economy. Together, through data, we can build an interconnected, resilient trade network that drives prosperity across our nations.

Fostering Business Cooperation Through Data Intelligence

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the power of BRICS+ lies not just in governments but in the businesses that drive innovation and create jobs. Data can be the bridge that connects entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and multinational corporations across our bloc, fostering a spirit of cooperation and trust.

With a shared data infrastructure, BRICS+ can create an environment where businesses thrive—where investment decisions are informed by real-time market insights, where regulatory barriers are reduced, and where cross-border partnerships are forged with confidence. The impact on SMEs, in particular, could be transformative. With access to the right data, small businesses could enter new markets and compete on a level playing field, attracting both internal and foreign investment that supports long-term growth.

Through data, we can break down the barriers that separate us and build a business ecosystem that not only attracts investment but drives sustainable economic development across BRICS+.

Building the Future: A Unified BRICS+ Data Ecosystem

The journey towards a data-driven BRICS+ will not be without challenges. Establishing a unified data platform requires trust, collaboration, and a commitment to data governance, privacy, and cybersecurity. But the rewards far outweigh the risks. A secure, standardized data-sharing platform will empower BRICS+ nations to act swiftly, forecast economic trends, and make strategic decisions that benefit the entire bloc.

In this digital age, where information is power, data is our greatest asset. It has the potential to unite BRICS+ as a force for good in the global economy—setting new standards for currency stability, fostering equitable trade relationships, and enabling businesses to collaborate seamlessly across borders.

Let us not underestimate the transformative power of data. Together, through shared intelligence, we can chart a new path for BRICS+—a path that leads to deeper integration, stronger economies, and a future where we, as a united bloc, stand as a beacon of progress and prosperity on the world stage.

Dr. Iqbal Survé, Past Chairman of the BRICS Business Council and Co-Chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN.

Shannon Cupido, Associate, BRICS+ Consulting Group.