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The BRICS alliance is seemingly eyeing a major Asian expansion as countries clamor to join the collective this year. Four countries have stood out, with Vietnam At the beginning of 2025, Indonesia became the first Southeast Asian nation to formally join BRICS. Three other ASEAN countries - Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, have AS RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang wrapped up separate meetings in South-east Asia this week, the two partners in the Brics Indonesia’s admission to BRICS in January 2025, alongside Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam joining as partner countries in October 2025, exemplifies the region’s As the first Southeast Asian nation to join the bloc, Indonesia's membership expands BRICS' influence while potentially reshaping international trade and diplomatic relations. The new partner countries show that BRICS Plus is breaking more ground in Eurasia, Africa, and Latin America. That said, there is also the challenge of building and

BRICS Eyes Major Asian Expansion as Nations Clamor to Join

The BRICS alliance is seemingly eyeing a major Asian expansion as countries clamor to join the collective this year. The allure of increased economic cooperation and a stronger voice on the global stage is drawing significant interest from across the continent.

Indonesia Leads the Way: A Southeast Asian Hub for BRICS

As the first Southeast Asian nation to join the bloc, Indonesia's membership expands BRICS' influence while potentially reshaping international trade and diplomatic relations. Indonesia’s admission to BRICS in January 2025 exemplifies the region’s growing importance in the global economy.

More Nations Joining the Fold: Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam

Four countries have stood out, with Vietnam expressing strong interest. Joining Indonesia in expanding the BRICS influence are Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, becoming partner countries in October 2025. This marks a significant step in BRICS Plus breaking more ground in Eurasia, Africa, and Latin America.

The Power of Partnership: Putin, Xi, and Southeast Asia

AS RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang wrapped up separate meetings in South-east Asia this week, the two partners in the Brics alliance are actively cultivating relationships in the region. These partnerships are crucial for fostering deeper integration and collaboration within the BRICS framework.

Building a Stronger Future: Challenges and Opportunities

That said, there is also the challenge of building and strengthening internal cohesion as the bloc expands. Ensuring effective coordination and addressing diverse national interests will be crucial for the long-term success of BRICS and its expanded membership.

What This Means for Global Trade and Diplomacy

The inclusion of these Southeast Asian nations promises to reshape international trade and diplomatic relations, offering a new perspective and potentially challenging existing power structures. The expansion signifies a growing interest in alternative alliances and a desire for a more multipolar world.

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