UPSC Prelims 2010 Q41: Indian Economy – International Institutions & Reports
Consider the following countries:
1. Brazil
2. Mexico
3. South Africa
According to UNCTAD,
which of the above is/are categorized as “Emerging Economies”?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 3 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Which countries UNCTAD categorized as "Emerging Economies"
UNCTAD's classification of Emerging Economies around this period included several large, rapidly developing nations.
| Country | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Brazil | Correct | Brazil was classified as a major emerging economy by UNCTAD |
| 2. Mexico | Correct | Mexico was also categorized as an emerging economy in UNCTAD's classification |
| 3. South Africa | Correct | South Africa, too, was listed among UNCTAD's emerging economies |
UNCTAD's emerging economies classification:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basis | Significant GDP growth, trade integration, and development trajectory |
| Includes | Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, among others (e.g., BRICS-linked economies) |
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Mexico and South Africa (statements 2 and 3) are also categorized as emerging economies, so '1 only' is too narrow.
- (b) Incorrect. Brazil (statement 1) is also categorized as an emerging economy, so '1 and 3 only' excludes Mexico wrongly.
- (c) Incorrect. Brazil (statement 1) is also categorized as an emerging economy, so '2 and 3 only' wrongly excludes it.
- (d) CORRECT. Brazil, Mexico, and South Africa are all categorized by UNCTAD as emerging economies.
Key point
UNCTAD categorized Brazil, Mexico, AND South Africa as 'Emerging Economies' — all three countries, not a subset.
Remember
UNCTAD 'Emerging Economies' (per this question): Brazil, Mexico, and South Africa — all three.
Common mistakes
- Assuming only BRICS member countries (excluding Mexico) qualify as UNCTAD's emerging economies.
- Underestimating how broadly UNCTAD's emerging-economy classification extends.
- Not treating all three listed countries as independently verified members of this category.
Exam tip
UNCTAD's 'Emerging Economies' list is broader than just BRICS — it includes Mexico and South Africa alongside Brazil.
Sources
- United Nations Conference on Trade and Development — World Investment Report 2010
- United Nations Conference on Trade and Development — Handbook of Statistics 2009