This paper examines the involvement of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) in the global value chains (GVCs) between 2000 and 2014. It focuses on domestic value-added exports and vertical specialization. We use WIOD tables to assess the position of these countries in GVCs and a decomposition of their trade in terms of value added. China exhibits substantial growth in all indicators, whereas the other countries’ results appear to be mixed. The study also considers the economies of Mexico and South Korea, highlighting Mexico’s declining participation in GVCs in contrast to the steady growth of South Korea’s involvement. To ensure sustained long-term economic growth, the BRICS countries and other emerging economies should create a common growth agenda and increase their participation in global value chains. The paper provides insights into the dynamics of trade and vertical specialization and thus contributes to better understanding of economic relations between the BRICS countries and other emerging economies.
