BRICS is on the brink of a transformative expansion in 2025, as 44 countries have formally and informally expressed interest in joining the alliance, signaling a dramatic shift in the global balance of power. This surge in interest will be a central focus at the 17th BRICS Summit, scheduled for July 7–8, 2025, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the bloc’s ten current members will deliberate on the future structure and membership of the alliance.

The expansion wave follows the recent admission of Indonesia as the tenth member in January 2025, alongside the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates in 2024. BRICS now represents nearly half of the world’s population and over 41% of global GDP (PPP), positioning itself as a formidable economic powerhouse and a leader in key global commodities.

Out of the 44 interested countries, 23 have formally applied for membership, while 21 have expressed informal interest. Vietnam became the 44th nation to declare its intent to join this month, reflecting a growing desire among emerging economies to seek alternatives to the Western-dominated financial system and to support the bloc’s push for de-dollarization.

China, Russia, and Iran are strong advocates for this expansion, viewing it as a strategic step toward reducing reliance on the US dollar in international trade and enhancing economic sovereignty for member states. The expanded BRICS+ alliance is expected to accelerate the development of a new unified payment system, further facilitating trade and financial transactions outside Western-controlled networks.

The upcoming summit in Brazil will not only address the admission of new members but also discuss critical reforms to strengthen BRICS’ global economic influence. Under Brazil’s 2025 chairmanship, the bloc is prioritizing climate financing, sustainable development, and inclusive growth, reinforcing its commitment to the interests of the Global South.