"The acronym "Bric" was created more than 10 years ago, it was meant to describe those countries large enough today, or which might be large enough in the future, to be literally part of the "bric" or fabric of the modern global economy.It also stands for Brazil, Russia, India China. Last year, South Africa became a member of the new emerging economic power grouping known as the Brics -- Brazil, Russia, India, China and now South Africa. It was the default choice representing the African continent. After much lobbying by Pretoria to the Chinese government, South Africa was extended an invitation from Beijing to join the Bric grouping" - Zapiro.com