Competition, Sustainability, and Global Trade: Insights from the 9th BRICS International Competition Conference

‍Setting the Stage: BRICS and the Global Order

Since its establishment in 2009, the BRICS grouping has steadily evolved from a platform for dialogue to a central pillar in shaping a multipolar economic order. The expansion of BRICS in 2024 reinforced its status as a voice for emerging markets and developing nations, particularly in the Global South. Against this backdrop, the 9th BRICS International Competition Conference, hosted by the Competition Commission of South Africa, provided a crucial forum for reflecting on how competition policy intersects with sustainability, trade, and development.

Speaking at the opening, Commissioner Doris Tshepe emphasised that the conference represents more than a technical dialogue. Instead, it marks “a new chapter in the journey of BRICS, in the evolution of global competition policy, and in the collective effort of emerging economies to shape a fairer, more inclusive international economic order.”

Her remarks set the tone for two days of robust discussion, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among delegates from BRICS nations, international organisations, and academic institutions.

Competition and Sustainability: A Balancing Act

One of the central themes of the conference was the integration of sustainability concerns into competition frameworks. Policymakers face the difficult task of balancing climate action with inclusive economic development. As Commissioner Tshepe warned, sustainability must be pursued in ways that do not “reproduce the very inequalities it is meant to address.”

Speakers highlighted that developed economies’ narrow emphasis on climate policies often risks sidelining developing countries. BRICS delegates collectively argued for a holistic approach that encompasses all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), ensuring that social justice, poverty eradication, and economic growth are considered alongside environmental objectives.

This theme resonated strongly in the African context, where fractured multilateralism and inequitable global agreements often undermine national development goals.

Regulating Digital Markets and Artificial Intelligence

The rapid expansion of digital markets and the emergence of artificial intelligence were also at the forefront of discussions. BRICS competition authorities have increasingly turned their attention to big tech platforms, investigating anti-competitive practices such as data monopolisation and algorithmic collusion..

A shared commitment to innovation  , while underlining the importance of cooperation among BRICS nations in navigating the challenges of regulating AI-driven markets.

Food Security and Global Commodity Concentration

A further area of concern was the concentration of market power in global food trade. A small number of multinational commodity traders control the bulk of global grain value chains, raising alarms about market manipulation and food security.

Delegates explored the potential of joint investigations and collaborative research to address these imbalances. With food inflation and supply chain disruptions disproportionately affecting developing economies, BRICS authorities underlined the urgency of ensuring fair competition in agricultural markets.

This issue carries particular weight for Africa, where rising food prices undermine social stability and economic resilience.

Youth Voices and Future Perspectives

A notable feature of the conference was the participation of future leaders of BRICS nations, who presented academic papers on themes ranging from access to credit and women entrepreneurship to merger review and public interest provisions. Their contributions highlighted innovative approaches and offered a glimpse into the next generation of competition policy thought leadership.

By engaging with young academics and professionals, BRICS demonstrated its commitment to capacity-building and intellectual renewal, reinforcing the long-term sustainability of its institutional agenda.

Multilateralism in Uncertain Times

The keynote address by Ben Joubert, Sous-Sherpa for BRICS South Africa, reflected on the fragility of the current international order. He noted that international law and multilateralism are being weakened, often leaving the Global South without adequate protection.

Joubert stressed that BRICS must not seek isolation but rather play a transformative role in modernising and reforming global governance. “We must use our collective voice to advance reforms to modernise multilateral systems and to better reflect the voices and priorities of developing countries,” he said.

This call underscored the wider geopolitical stakes of competition policy. Far from being narrow legal discipline, it is increasingly central to questions of equity, sustainability, and development.

Towards a Shared Vision

The closing panel brought together the heads of BRICS competition authorities, who reflected on their priorities for the next five years. Support for small businesses, greater scrutiny of digital markets, and increased cooperation in pharmaceuticals emerged as shared themes.

In a landmark moment, the authorities signed a joint statement committing to deeper collaboration on cross-border enforcement, the condemnation of cartels,and the integration of BRICS-specific development perspectives into competition policy.

Commissioner Tshepe concluded by affirming that BRICS seeks “not a single approach, but rather cooperation that respects diversity while meeting collective goals.” This vision, she argued, is consistent with a more inclusive multilateral system—one grounded in sovereignty, participation, and mutual development.

Looking Ahead

The handover of hosting rights for the 10th BRICS International Competition Conference in 2027 to Brazil’s Gustavo Augusto Freitas de Lima symbolised the continuity of this collective project.

As BRICS economies continue to expand their global influence, the role of competition authorities will remain central in navigating cross-border challenges. From sustainability and digitalisation to food security and multilateral reform, the Cape Town conference has set an ambitious agenda for the years ahead.

By fostering cooperation and knowledge-sharing, BRICS nations reaffirm their commitment to building a fairer, more inclusive international economic order—one that reflects the aspirations of the Global South.

Written by Melissa Hollow - Media Manager BRICS AFRICA CHANNEL

Photo supplied by Competitions Commission South Africa Media

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