13 Countries Officially Apply to Join BRICS Alliance

The BRICS alliance is experiencing a surge in interest, with numerous nations vying for membership. But is it 13, or more? Which countries have applied to join BRICS? While the specific number shifts, recent reports indicate significant interest globally.

Which Countries Have Applied to Join BRICS in 2025?

The official expansion of BRICS is a multi-stage process. According to various reports, more than 20 countries, including Algeria, Bangladesh, and Nigeria, have formally applied to join BRICS, hoping to be part of a multipolar world and leverage the economic advantages the alliance offers.

Nine countries will officially become “BRICS partners” on January 1, 2025, according to confirmation from Russia. The new BRICS partner states will be Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba... and others, with a path for potentially full membership down the line.

BRICS Expansion in 2025: A New Era?

The original member states of BRICS, an international organization of world economies, consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa formally joined and attended the 3rd BRICS summit. The organization expanded again, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates attending the 16th BRICS summit as official members. In January 2025, Indonesia joined the fold as well. The desire to be part of BRICS reflects a growing appetite for alternative economic alliances.

Interest in BRICS: A Global Phenomenon

South African Foreign Minister Pandor once said that countries around the world are very interested in joining the BRICS, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and many more. This level of interest highlights the perceived benefits of BRICS membership in an evolving global landscape.