Indonesia Joins BRICS Bloc as Full Member
Indonesia: Indonesia has officially become the newest member of the BRICS group, joining Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa in a move aimed at strengthening South-South cooperation. Brazil, as the bloc's current president, announced Indonesia’s unanimous approval as a full member, marking another step in BRICS’ expansion efforts, which recently included Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. Indonesia, with the largest population and economy in Southeast Asia, is expected to play a key role in reforming global governance institutions and deepening cooperation across the Global South.
Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised the importance of BRICS as a platform to amplify the voices of developing nations, committing to work with members toward a just, peaceful, and prosperous global order. The membership is welcomed by Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which highlighted its potential to enhance trade and investment with other Global South nations. This development comes as protectionist trade policies, particularly those anticipated under Donald Trump's presidency, pose risks to the global economy. With threats of universal tariffs and sanctions on Chinese firms, Indonesia's BRICS membership positions it strategically to navigate emerging market challenges and opportunities.
Source: Bloomberg