Russia and New BRICS Countries: Prospects for Technological Cooperation

The article analyzes economic, scientific and technological profiles of the countries that became new BRICS members in 2024. The goal is to access perspectives of mutually beneficial collaboration for Russia and these countries in scientific and technological area aimed at achieving technological sustainability. Technological sustainability is an important factor for building technological sovereignty, which is the strategic goal set by the Russian government. These new BRICS countries are comparatively weak in terms of their scientific and technological potential. However, they are rapidly increasing their scientific productivity and have clear areas of specialization. Some of the new BRICS countries already have strong scientific ties with each other. In terms of expanding scientific cooperation, the new BRICS countries are of strategic interest because they have been steadily increasing their level of cooperation with the traditional BRICS countries. This shows that these countries are highly interested in cooperation. Technological area is studied based on data of high-tech export and import. The trade balance shows that Russia has a balanced trade position within the group, but is not among the leaders. China together accounts for more than 90% of Russia’s imports from the BRICS countries. However, diversification of supplies is important for Russia to improve its technological sustainability. Among the new BRICS partners and Russia, pharmaceuticals, scientific instruments, electronics and computer technology are in high demand. In terms of country priorities, cooperation with the African Union, which includes two new BRICS countries – Egypt and Ethiopia – is becoming rather promising. These countries could become a growing market for Russian companies in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. In addition, Russia can participate in the scientific expertise and development of Ethiopia’s technological capabilities in this area.