Economic relations between India and China: potential and limitations for interaction between the two countries in the context of BRICS+

In a world where interdependence and connectivity are growing, the economic ties between the nations with rich historical legacies command notice. China and India have emerged as key players in the global economy, influencing trade patterns, maintaining regional security, and fostering the growth of international economic relations. An evaluation of the economic relations between India and China becomes important in the light of the growing BRICS+ framework, which forms a coalition of emerging economies. Assuming that the BRICS is a prospective integration association without a formalized institutional or organizational structure as of yet, this analysis creates interest as the form of the organization is evolving. Nonetheless, the BRICS have a strong potential of developing into a significant player in global administration. A comprehensive analysis of India-China economic relations is given in the theoretical framework and literature review part, which traces the historical development of these relations and examines the dynamics that shape interactions. The chapter also investigates the evolution of BRICS to BRICS+. Prior academic research works on the bilateral economic connections between China and India are reviewed to highlight the research gaps and opportunities. The practical parts of the research goals to investigate factors determining the prospects and constraints of India-China economic cooperation within the BRICS+ group. The study employs expert interviews, which serve as a source of primary data. Through a thorough analysis of the Sino-Indian cooperation within the BRICS+, the research paper tries to perceive the key factors for the India-China relation development within the BRICS+ framework. In conclusion, the research findings are combined to provide insights into possible areas of cooperation and barriers to broader engagement between India and China. The paper also considers the significance of these findings for policymakers, practitioners, and other academic researchers interested in economic interactions between these two Asian giants. Overall, this study contributes to the current literature by providing a more nuanced view of the economic dynamics between India and China within the reshaping from BRICS to BRICS+ framework. Keywords: India, China, BRICS, BRICS+, Sino-Indian relations, expert interviews, China-India cooperation.