The work dwells on the fundamental problems of the development of the so-called major semi-peripheral countries considered as an intermediate link between the Center and the periphery of the world economic space. Among these countries are Russia, China, Brazil, India and Mexico. Of interest is the analysis of the above listed countries’ development strategy in the context of globalization. The authors conclude that it is necessary to counterbalance the costs and benefits of joining the WTO. 24 experts from Russia, China, India, Spain, Belgium and Macedonia contributed to the research.