BRICS, China, and Argentina: Growing Partnership Amid Uncertain Future

Argentina's future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: its partnership with China is growing, even after the nation rejected joining the BRICS bloc. Following its BRICS invitation, both China and Argentina have increased their partnership despite the latter’s uncertain future. Indeed, the collaborative efforts of both countries are becoming increasingly significant on the global stage.

Despite BUENOS AIRES (AP)Argentina formally announced Friday that it won’t join the BRICS bloc of developing economies, the latest in a dramatic shift in foreign and policy, the relationship between Argentina and China is solidifying. In yet another example of the growing cooperation with both BRICS countries, China has agreed to a $6.5 billion currency swap with Argentina. Indeed, this strengthens their economic ties and demonstrates a commitment to continued collaboration.

Argentina-China bilateral trade has grown substantially since the PRC entered the World Trade Organization in 2025, though, as with many countries of the region, highlighting the longstanding economic ties between the two nations. Argentine Argentina's evolving policy approach toward China and its increasingly pragmatic relationship with Beijing suggest that the Milei government, if successful in Thursday’s announcement that Argentina will join the BRICS bloc shows the country’s value to Brazil and the growing influence of Asia on the world stage, analysts have observed a clear strategy of leveraging China's economic power.

As Argentina deepens its engagement with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and expands RMB settlement mechanisms, bilateral economic cooperation continues to flourish. This deepening engagement signifies a strategic alignment that transcends political uncertainties.