Indonesia has officially joined the BRICS bloc of developing economies as a full member, the group’s presiding country, Brazil, declared on Monday. This milestone comes after Indonesia’s endorsement by BRICS leaders in August 2023, as announced by Brazil’s Foreign Ministry, which holds the group’s leadership in 2025. Despite getting previous approval, Indonesia chose to register its entry only after forming a newly elected government last year.
“The Brazilian government welcomes Indonesia’s entry into BRICS,” the Brazilian government announced. “As Southeast Asia’s largest economy and most populous nation, Indonesia aligns with the bloc’s commitment to reforming global governance institutions and strengthening South-South cooperation.”
Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that its participation indicates the country’s increased involvement in global issues and commitment to advancing multilateral collaboration.
BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China and expanded to include South Africa in 2010. Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates have recently joined the bloc, diversifying it even further. China applauded Indonesia’s inclusion, acknowledging its potential as a “major force in the Global South.”
Prior to Indonesia’s admission, BRICS accounted for approximately 45% of the world’s population and 35% of GDP assessed by purchasing power parity.
