This article aims to investigate the moderating role of digitalization of trade (DT) on the association among foreign direct investment (FDI) and sustainable economic growth in BRICS+ nations over the period 1996–2023. This research employed a panel quantile regression approach for an empirical analysis and the two-stage least squares model for robustness. The findings depict the direct influence of both FDI and DT, which substantially and favourably enhance sustainable economic growth. Together, they stimulate innovation, enhance infrastructure and foster equitable and sustainable economic development for long-term prosperity. The moderating influence of DT on the FDI–growth relationship is found to be significant at all quantiles (except the 10th and 90th). The study recommended that policymakers should lower trade barriers, reduce tariff rates and form investor-friendly policies to attract FDI and promote DT by fostering digital literacy and investment in digital infrastructure for the economic advancement of BRICS+ nations.
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