Jon R. Taylor,

professor of political science and director, Master of Public Policy and Administration Program, University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas

1The BRICS can help the global economy by leading by example, by taking a united stand against protectionism and by backing a multilateral trade system. The need to be aggressive in warning about the dangers of greater protectionism is particularly important in the aftermath of Brexit and the US presidential election. The growth of emerging countries, particularly the growth that we have seen in China, has clearly underscored the importance for growth to be both sustainable and inclusive.

2The overall economic conditions of the developing world have improved dramatically, as exemplified by the BRICS — particularly China. China’s role has been critical in both the global economic recovery and in championing the benefits of economic globalization. The BRICS role in the global economic recovery should aim at a political goal by supporting open markets and a philosophical goal of encouraging and enhancing South-South cooperation.

3They can follow China’s lead by pushing for win-win cooperation policies that are aimed at common development, maintaining open and accessible markets and trade, and policies that are aimed at poverty eradication and inclusive growth. Given that we appear to be at a potentially pivotal moment in the battle against global economic inequality, the BRICS can be champions of mutually beneficial cooperation. Thanks to close cooperation and coordination between China and the other BRICS nations, the BRICS contribute to safeguarding the interests of developing countries as a whole and improving the global governance system. China’s “BRICS Plus” proposal shows promise by offering to build mutually beneficial bilateral and multilateral partnerships through dialogue and consensus.

4Several issues immediately come to mind: income inequality, climate change, energy, trade, e-commerce cooperation, cybersecurity, anti-terrorism, and increasing people-to-people exchanges. What is needed is an emphasis on maintaining economic momentum. While China is doing its part, the other BRICS nations are facing economic and political challenges. They would do well to follow China’s lead on economic stabilization and supply-side structural reforms.

5Developing countries can draw the following from China’s development experience: Start small, focus on structural reforms first, invest heavily in a knowledge-based infrastructure, encourage policy and political cohesion, emphasize inclusive development, promote policy experimentation, remove impediments to economic reform and promote financial and market stability.