Igor S. KRISHTAL
Persistent geopolitical instability and volatility in global markets over the past decade have led to a weakening of globalization processes. As a result, regional formats of cooperation have come to the forefront, enabling participating countries to better cope with current challenges. BRICS is an example of a successful platform for regional cooperation. Trade within the union has grown significantly over the period of its existence. The article provides a detailed examination of the trade structure of the member states. The aim of the study is to analyse the dynamics and commodity structure of the external and intra-bloc trade of the BRICS countries and to assess the transformation of their positions in global trade flows. Based on statistical data for 2020–2024, the paper presents a quantitative and qualitative assessment of export and import volumes, key directions of trade flows, and the degree of their diversification. Particular attention is paid to trade in high-tech goods and products with high value added as a factor in strengthening the competitiveness of BRICS in the global market. The article also examines the share of the commodity sector in BRICS trade and how it shapes the stability of export revenues and the bloc’s integration into the global economy. As BRICS increases its share in global trade and expands its membership, the bloc becomes more cohesive, and trade flows between its members are distributed more evenly. These findings clarify the prospects for deeper trade and economic cooperation within BRICS and outline how national trade strategies can be further adapted to the new conditions of the world economy.