BRICS Coordinating Crackdown on Digital Markets: A New Era for Global Tech Regulation
In what is certainly an interesting development, the BRICS economic alliance is reportedly coordinating a crackdown on digital markets. This signals a potential shift in the global landscape of tech regulation, as Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) seek to address the growing influence of digital platforms.
BRICS Enforcers Unite Against Uncompetitive Digital Practices
BRICS Enforcers in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa plan to coordinate antitrust investigations in the digital economy, a commissioner at Brazil’s competition authority recently revealed. This coordinated effort focuses on addressing approaches used to address uncompetitive practices of digital platforms, ecosystems and marketplaces. The authorities addressed approaches used to address uncompetitive practices of digital platforms, ecosystems and marketplaces.
Focus on Digital Sovereignty and Infrastructure
Recognizing the need for greater digital autonomy, BRICS countries have to reduce their reliance on foreign-owned digital infrastructure by investing in independent internet government structures, sovereign cloud, etc. This is seen as crucial for cybersecurity, digital market and the adequacy of measures to counter cyberthreats. Digital infrastruc-ture development remains a common priority, particularly for the “old” BRICS leaders: Russia and China.
Key Priorities: Cybersecurity, Digital Payments, AI, and Digital Public Goods
The statement emphasises notes the need for a strategic approach to digital development. It recommends that BRICS prioritise four key areas: cybersecurity, digital payment solutions, responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital public goods to further the use of technology for societal benefit.
BRICS Report on Digital Platform Markets
A report on BRICS digital platform markets was prepared within the Working Group with the support of the Brazilian antitrust authority CADE and experts from the BRICS Enforcers. This report provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities within the BRICS digital economy and informs the ongoing coordinated crackdown.