For Nigerian entrepreneurs, policy experts, and cross-border traders, the global economic dialogue is evolving at a rapid pace. While Nigeria is not yet part of the BRICS coalition, the bloc's recent expansion—now welcoming continental neighbors like Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Africa—sends powerful ripples across the entire African market.
A new report from the DHL GIBS Development Series dives deep into how this growing alliance is reshaping global commerce and why Africa stands at the nexus of these transformative shifts.
Hennie Heymans, CEO DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa
In this fourth and final paper of 2025, we take a wider view—examining Africa’s emerging identity within the expanded BRICS+ grouping. From demographic trends and trade dynamics to the flow of people and exchange of information, we analyze where this powerful coalition aligns and diverges from other global partnerships. What becomes clear is that seismic shifts are underway in the world’s socio-economic landscape—and Africa is poised to play a pivotal role in this new era.
Africa at the Heart of Change
Global economic frameworks are rapidly evolving—and Africa’s young, fast-growing population combined with abundant natural resources sets the stage for a remarkable opportunity to foster widespread prosperity. Since South Africa’s entry into BRICS in 2011, the coalition has expanded into BRICS+, now encompassing 11 diverse nations, including Egypt and Ethiopia. Together, these countries represent nearly half the world’s population and around 40% of global economic output (PPP), surpassing even the G7 in scale. Their collective goal is clear: to empower the Global South and amplify the influence of developing nations within international institutions.
A New Path Forward
This expansion is significant because it presents a fresh alternative in an increasingly protectionist and geopolitically fraught world.
The bloc’s established institutions, such as the New Development Bank, have already mobilized over US$30 billion to fund infrastructure and green energy projects, signaling a commitment to sustainable growth.
Yet the report uncovers an intriguing paradox through the lens of the TCIP framework (Trade, Capital, Information, People). Trade flow within the bloc remains modest, with only 20% of exports circulating internally. In contrast, capital flow has surged — foreign direct investment between members jumped from 5.7% to nearly 29% in recent years. This signals strong financial ties, but underscores the need for deeper trade integration.
Unlocking Potential Through Connectivity
The key to fully realizing BRICS+’s promise lies in enhanced connectivity. Greater integration—the seamless linking of trade, capital, and people—will be critical to unlocking the bloc’s full potential. For Africa, this marks a pivotal moment: the chance to accelerate development and prosperity across the continent for decades to come.
For an in-depth look at the data, future scenarios, and detailed TCIP analysis, explore the full DHL GIBS Development Series report here.
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