Publication

This paper examines the strength, magnitude and direction of bilateral trade between Ethiopia and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) between 1995 and 2012. Overall, the authors find that the BRICS are becoming increasingly important trading partners to Ethiopia. However, they also find that these bilateral trade relations reflect a typical North–South pattern, with Ethiopia’s major imports comprising manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment, and major exports mainly consisting of primary products. They then provide recommendations for Ethiopia on how to transform its economy and diversify its exports by strengthening its trade relations with the BRICS.