Constructing Dual Indices for Cross-Border E-Commerce Development and SME Internationalization in BRICS: A Matching Evaluation

Abstract

The study develops a dual-index framework to evaluate the alignment between cross-border e-commerce readiness and SME internationalization within the BRICS economies. The CBEC Readiness Index incorporates digital connectivity, digital payment adoption, and digitalization of border procedures. The SME Internationalization Index captures the degree of substantive export engagement among small firms. Results indicate systematic misalignment. Russia and China show higher readiness relative to export depth, whereas India demonstrates stronger export performance than digital readiness. South Africa presents a balanced profile. Robustness checks using alternative export measures, firm size comparators, distinct weighting methods, and a constrained data period affirm the consistency of the outcomes. This framework offers a diagnostic tool for policymakers to identify where capability building or infrastructural reform is most needed to synchronize digital readiness with export performance.

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