COUNTRIES TO JOIN BRICS

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 18:40 | Written by: Emin Gün Sirer

The global landscape is shifting, and one of the most significant indicators is the growing interest in joining the BRICS economic bloc. The five-nation group of emerging economies known as BRICS, which views itself as a counterweight to the West, has invited six more countries to join most of them from the Middle EastWhat started as an acronym coined by a Goldman Sachs economist to represent the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, has transformed into a powerful intergovernmental organization. The BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between Aug. 22 and Aug. 24.The allure of BRICS stems from its ambition to reshape the global order, giving developing nations a stronger voice and challenging the dominance of Western institutions. China Daily used the expansion to claim that more developing countries were interested in joining BRICS. [85] On, an additional 13 countries, namely Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam, were invited to participate as partner countries . [86]Now encompassing South Africa and recently expanded to include nations like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, BRICS represents a significant portion of the world's population and economic output. Also Read: Why More Than 40 Countries Are Lining Up To Join BRICS. Full List Of BRICS Members Their Currencies. indiatimes. Let us look at the ten nations that are currently members of the BRICS, along with their respective currencies: 1.Brazil. Currency-Brazilian Real (R$) 2.Russia. Currency-Russia Ruble (₽) 3.India. Currency-Rupee ₹ 4.ChinaBut why are so many countries eager to join this alliance?The answer lies in a complex interplay of economic opportunities, geopolitical strategies, and a desire for a more multipolar world. BRICS was created on J, and it compromises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The alliance is taking on the U.S. dollar with plans to launch a new currency to settle payments for international trades. The move is attracting other Eastern countries into the bloc as they wantThis article will delve into the reasons behind the surge in interest, explore the countries vying for membership, and analyze the potential implications of an expanded BRICS alliance. Brics, the informal grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has expanded yet again. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates have all joined the bloc, while dozens of countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Turkiye, Algeria and Bolivia have all expressed interest in doing so. But why the rush to join Brics? And what does this mean for the West?We'll also discuss the challenges and controversies surrounding this evolving global power dynamic, examining what it all means for the future of international relations and the global economy.

The Historical Context and Evolution of BRICS

The genesis of BRICS can be traced back to the early 2000s, when economist Jim O'Neill coined the term ""BRIC"" to highlight the investment potential of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. Bahrain is joining Algeria and three other Arab countries in a bid to join BRICS, having formally declared its intention to do so at a summit in South Africa in 2025. Information on Bahrain s individual motivations to join BRICS, beyond operating in tandem with its fellow oil-producing Arabian nations, is scarce.These countries, with their rapid economic growth and large populations, were seen as engines of future global prosperity. Saudi Arabia has joined Brics, the alliance of major developing countries, along with four other nations. The Saudi membership was due to start on 1 January, but there was a delay before it wasInitially, the grouping was more of a conceptual framework than a formal organization. South Africa joined in 2025. Many more countries have sought to join the BRICS orbit since the 2025 expansion, which China championed. But not all were so eager:However, the leaders of the BRIC nations began to meet informally, gradually solidifying their cooperation.

The first official BRIC summit took place in 2009 in Yekaterinburg, Russia, marking the formal establishment of the alliance.In 2010, South Africa was invited to join, expanding the group to BRICS.The inclusion of South Africa, representing the African continent, further enhanced the bloc's global reach and influence.

From its initial focus on economic cooperation and foreign investment strategy, BRICS has evolved into a more comprehensive alliance, addressing a wide range of global issues, including trade, finance, security, and sustainable development.The establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB), also known as the BRICS bank, in 2015, was a significant milestone, providing a platform for infrastructure financing and development projects in emerging economies.

Why Are Countries Lining Up to Join BRICS?

The growing interest in joining BRICS reflects a confluence of factors, including disillusionment with the existing international order, the pursuit of economic opportunities, and the desire for greater geopolitical influence. Before the start of its annual summit in South Africa this week, more than 40 countries had expressed interest in joining BRICS, and 23 formally applied to join.Here's a closer look at some of the key motivations:

Challenging Western Dominance: Many developing countries feel that the current global institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, are dominated by Western powers and do not adequately represent their interests. BRICS expansion: 9 partner countries in January 2025, 4 new members in 2025, now half of global population and 41% of world GDP (PPP), with top producers of commodities like oil, gas, grains, meat, minerals.BRICS offers an alternative platform for these countries to voice their concerns and shape the global agenda.
Economic Opportunities: BRICS represents a significant economic force, accounting for a substantial share of global GDP and trade.Joining BRICS can provide access to new markets, investment opportunities, and trade agreements, boosting economic growth and development.
Geopolitical Influence: BRICS aims to promote a more multipolar world, where power is distributed more evenly among different countries and regions. Nearly three dozen countries are seeking entry into the China and Russia-backed BRICS economic group, member state South Africa said Wednesday, weeks after the body expanded its membership for theBy joining BRICS, countries can enhance their geopolitical influence and play a more active role in shaping international affairs.
Desire for a New Currency: The intent of BRICS to launch a new currency to settle international trades and reduce dependence on the US Dollar is attracting other countries to join.

Countries Expressing Interest in BRICS Membership

A significant number of countries have expressed interest in joining the BRICS alliance, signaling a growing desire for an alternative to the existing global order. Chairmanship Rotation. Chairmanship in BRICS rotates yearly among member countries. Russia is currently chairing for 2025, and President Vladimir Putin is at the helm of the agenda.While not all of these countries have formally applied for membership, their expressions of interest highlight the widespread appeal of BRICS.

Some of the countries that have publicly expressed interest in joining BRICS include:

Algeria: A major oil and gas producer, Algeria seeks to diversify its economic partnerships and enhance its regional influence.
Bahrain: Seeking to increase its economic and political ties within the Arab world and beyond, Bahrain has formally declared its intention to join.
Belarus: A close ally of Russia, Belarus is keen to strengthen its economic ties with other BRICS members.
Bolivia: Rich in natural resources, Bolivia sees BRICS membership as an opportunity to attract investment and promote economic development.
Cuba: Facing economic challenges due to sanctions, Cuba hopes to find new markets and investment opportunities within the BRICS framework.
Indonesia: As Southeast Asia's largest economy, Indonesia seeks to play a more prominent role in global affairs and diversify its economic partnerships.
Kazakhstan: A strategically important country in Central Asia, Kazakhstan aims to strengthen its economic ties with other emerging economies.
Malaysia: Seeking to boost its trade and investment opportunities, Malaysia sees BRICS as a potential avenue for economic growth.
Nigeria: Africa's largest economy, Nigeria aims to enhance its economic and political influence on the global stage.
Saudi Arabia: With massive oil reserves and significant economic clout, Saudi Arabia's inclusion strengthens the BRICS alliance considerably.
Thailand: Seeking to diversify its economic partnerships and boost its trade, Thailand sees BRICS as a potential avenue for growth.
Turkey (Türkiye): A strategically important country with a large economy, Turkey seeks to enhance its geopolitical influence and diversify its economic partnerships.
Uganda: Interested in expanding trade and attracting foreign investment.
Uzbekistan: A Central Asian nation seeking to strengthen its economic and political ties with other emerging economies.
Vietnam: A fast-growing economy in Southeast Asia, Vietnam seeks to diversify its economic partnerships and enhance its global integration.

Partner Countries

In addition to the countries formally invited to join or expressing strong interest, BRICS has also established a category of ""partner countries."" These countries participate in BRICS meetings and activities, fostering closer ties and exploring potential avenues for future cooperation.Many of the countries listed above have been, at various times, considered ""partner countries"" before expressing more formal interest in full membership.

For instance, in 2025, Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam were invited to participate as partner countries.

The Expansion of BRICS: Implications and Challenges

The expansion of BRICS has significant implications for the global political and economic order. NEW DELHI: 34 countries have officially applied for BRICS membership. The 10 new members and 10 partners will be announced in the upcoming BRICS Summit in Kazan to be held between October 22 andOn one hand, it strengthens the bloc's economic and political influence, giving developing countries a greater voice in global affairs.On the other hand, it also presents challenges, including the need to reconcile diverse interests and navigate complex geopolitical dynamics.

Potential Benefits of an Expanded BRICS

Increased Economic Power: With the inclusion of new members, BRICS will represent an even larger share of the global population and GDP, further enhancing its economic clout.
Greater Geopolitical Influence: An expanded BRICS can exert greater influence on global issues, promoting a more multipolar world and challenging the dominance of Western powers.
Enhanced South-South Cooperation: BRICS can serve as a platform for promoting cooperation and solidarity among developing countries, fostering mutual development and addressing common challenges.
Alternative Financial Architecture: The New Development Bank (NDB) and other BRICS-led initiatives can provide alternative sources of financing for infrastructure development and other projects in emerging economies, reducing dependence on Western-dominated institutions.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite the potential benefits, the expansion of BRICS also faces challenges and controversies:

Internal Divisions: BRICS members have diverse political and economic interests, which can lead to internal divisions and hinder the bloc's ability to act cohesively.
Geopolitical Tensions: The expansion of BRICS could exacerbate geopolitical tensions, particularly between BRICS members and Western powers.
Lack of Cohesion: Reconciling the diverse interests of a larger and more diverse membership can be challenging, potentially diluting the bloc's focus and effectiveness.
Concerns About China's Influence: Some observers worry that China's growing economic and political influence within BRICS could overshadow the interests of other members.

The BRICS Currency: A Challenge to the US Dollar?

One of the most discussed and potentially transformative initiatives of the BRICS alliance is the proposal to create a new currency for international trade.The motivation behind this is to reduce dependence on the US dollar, which currently dominates global financial transactions.Many BRICS members, and countries seeking to join, view the dollar's dominance as a source of economic vulnerability, as their economies can be affected by US monetary policy and sanctions.

While the details of the proposed BRICS currency are still under discussion, the idea is to create a unit of account that is backed by a basket of currencies from BRICS member states, and possibly other commodities.This would allow countries to trade with each other without relying on the US dollar, potentially reducing transaction costs and increasing economic independence.

However, the creation of a viable BRICS currency faces significant challenges.These include:

Economic Stability: Ensuring the stability and credibility of the new currency will be crucial to its success.This requires sound macroeconomic policies and effective monetary management.
Political Will: Overcoming the political and logistical hurdles involved in establishing a new currency requires strong political will and cooperation among BRICS members.
Global Acceptance: For the BRICS currency to become a viable alternative to the US dollar, it needs to gain widespread acceptance among other countries and international institutions.

Despite these challenges, the pursuit of a BRICS currency reflects a growing desire among developing countries for greater economic sovereignty and a more balanced global financial system.

The Road Ahead: The Future of BRICS and Global Power Dynamics

The future of BRICS will depend on its ability to navigate internal divisions, address global challenges, and adapt to a rapidly changing world. The other nations have only expressed their interest in joining the BRICS bloc. Also Read: 24 Countries Ready To Accept BRICS Currency. The next BRICS summit will be held in Cape Town, South Africa in August 2025. The five-nations bloc will combinedly decide on the launch of a new currency to settle global trade.The upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, will be a crucial opportunity for member states to chart a course for the future and reaffirm their commitment to cooperation and development.

Some key issues that BRICS will need to address in the coming years include:

Defining the Scope of Cooperation: BRICS needs to clarify its priorities and focus its efforts on areas where it can make the greatest impact, such as trade, investment, infrastructure development, and sustainable development.
Strengthening Institutional Capacity: The New Development Bank (NDB) and other BRICS-led institutions need to be strengthened to effectively support development projects and promote economic integration among member states.
Promoting Inclusivity and Transparency: BRICS needs to ensure that its decision-making processes are inclusive and transparent, and that all members have a voice in shaping the bloc's agenda.
Engaging with the Rest of the World: BRICS needs to engage with other countries and international organizations to promote dialogue, build consensus, and address global challenges collectively.

Ultimately, the success of BRICS will depend on its ability to build a more just and equitable global order, where all countries have the opportunity to prosper and develop.As more and more countries to join BRICS, the alliance's role in shaping the future of international relations and the global economy will only continue to grow. BRICS Countries List: This article explores the expansion of BRICS, tracing its journey from the initial four BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and China) to the current ten-member BRICS group. Furthermore, it examines the historical context of BRICS' formation, its initial purpose as a foreign investment strategy, and its evolving role in the global economy, including recent controversiesThe alliance is taking on the U.S. dollar with plans to launch a new currency to settle payments for international trades.

What's Next?The 2025 BRICS Summit in Cape Town

The world will be watching as the BRICS nations convene in Cape Town, South Africa, in August 2025. Brics wants emerging nations to have more influence in world affairs, and is expanding. Argentina was also invited to join, Brics countries produce about 44% of the world's crude oil.This summit will be a critical opportunity for the expanded BRICS alliance to solidify its agenda and address key challenges.Expect discussions to focus on:

The BRICS Currency: Further details and progress reports on the development of a new currency to challenge the US dollar.
Trade and Investment: Strategies to boost trade among member nations and attract foreign investment.
Geopolitical Cooperation: Addressing shared concerns and coordinating positions on international issues.
Expansion Strategy: Refining the criteria and process for future membership expansion.

The Cape Town summit will undoubtedly provide further insights into the evolving role of BRICS in the global landscape.It will be interesting to observe how the existing members integrate the new additions and how the bloc addresses the complex challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Conclusion: A New Era of Global Power?

The surge in interest from countries to join BRICS underscores a fundamental shift in the global landscape.As nations seek alternatives to the existing Western-dominated order, BRICS offers a compelling vision of a multipolar world with greater representation for emerging economies. The BRICS grouping is set to get a lot bigger. Cyril Ramaphosa, who is currently hosting the 15th edition of the summit of Brazil, Russia, India, South Africa and China in Johannesburg, announced on Thursday that six new countries are joining the bloc.While challenges remain in harmonizing diverse interests and navigating geopolitical complexities, the potential benefits of an expanded BRICS alliance are undeniable.From increased economic power and enhanced geopolitical influence to the promise of a more equitable financial system, BRICS is poised to play an increasingly significant role in shaping the future of international relations. A few years later, these countries formed the BRICS alliance in 2025. Three years later, they held the first summit in 2025 in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Later, in 2025, South Africa also joined the alliance. The name comes from the initial letters of each of the founding countries. After joining the new countries, this alliance is now known as BRICS.The upcoming summit in Cape Town will be a pivotal moment, offering a glimpse into the bloc's future direction and its potential to reshape the global order.Key takeaways are the increasing desire from countries to find alternatives to the western-dominated world order, the economic opportunities that come with joining a powerful and growing economic bloc, and the increasing geopolitical influence and leverage that is gained from being part of a large, diverse, and influential organization.As more nations line up to join, the world is watching to see if BRICS can truly deliver on its promise of a more balanced and equitable global system. Iran and Saudi Arabia were among six countries set to join Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa in the BRICS economic bloc from next year, the bloc announced Thursday, a move that will likely throw more scrutiny on Beijing s political influence in the Persian Gulf. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)The key will be to address internal divisions, strengthen institutional capacity, and foster greater inclusivity and transparency.