Geo-Techno Politics and E-Commerce in the BRICS Countries:

A Path Toward Digital Integration

Abstract

E-commerce, the digital exchange of goods and services, is vital in shaping global trade. Its implementation varies significantly across the BRICS nations due to the differences in technological advancement, political structures, and economic development. Investigating how these disparities influence the geopolitical dynamics of the digital economy is coined by the term Geo-Techno politics, yet the impacts are rarely mentioned. While e-commerce promises increased connectivity and innovation, contrasting regulatory approaches such as Russia's Data Localization Law and Brazil's relatively open market demonstrate deep-rooted tension in digital cooperation. Using comparative policy analysis and review of government frameworks, this study explores how state-driven agendas, data sovereignty, and inconsistent consumer protections contribute to the growing mistrust between nations and consumers and hinder the development of a unified global commerce framework. The results show that while all BRICS countries have made great strides in the development of e-commerce, diverging national priorities and regulatory models create friction in cross-border trade, affect consumer confidence, and limit collaborative innovation. This fragmentation amplifies global political divisions and highlights the need for harmonized digital policies. By identifying the geopolitical consequences of disjointed e-commerce ecosystems, this study calls for strategic cooperation among BRICS nations to develop aligned frameworks that promote trust, interoperability, and sustainable growth.