Indonesia has officially become a full member of the BRICS bloc, marking a significant milestone in the group’s expansion. The announcement was made by Brazil, the current chair of the BRICS summit, on Monday.
In a statement, the Brazilian government expressed its enthusiasm for Indonesia’s inclusion, highlighting its status as the largest economy and population in Southeast Asia. Indonesia’s entry is seen as a boost to the group’s collective efforts to reform global governance institutions and enhance South-South cooperation.
Originally formed in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS expanded in 2010 to include South Africa. The alliance has since grown, with Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE joining last year. Saudi Arabia has also been invited but has yet to accept the invitation. Other countries, including Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia, have formally expressed interest in joining.
BRICS, an organization created as a counterbalance to the G7, aims to elevate the influence of developing nations in global economic and political affairs. The term “BRICS” was coined in the early 2000s to describe emerging economies expected to lead the global economy by 2050. Prior to Indonesia’s membership, the bloc represented nearly 45% of the world’s population and 35% of global GDP based on purchasing power parity.
China congratulated Indonesia on its new status, emphasizing the country’s active participation in BRICS Plus cooperation. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stressed that Indonesia’s membership will benefit both BRICS and the broader Global South, driving reform in global governance systems and reinforcing multilateralism.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also welcomed the announcement, viewing the country’s inclusion as a sign of its growing influence in global affairs. Indonesia’s active participation in the BRICS agenda—focusing on economic resilience, technological collaboration, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and public health—is seen as pivotal to the group’s shared objectives.
Arsjad Rasjid, chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, described the moment as historic, emphasizing the potential for expanded economic, trade, and investment opportunities with other BRICS nations. He believes this new membership will stimulate innovation and support Indonesia’s national economic growth amid global competition.