Vietnam Joins BRICS – Strategic Expansion in 2025.
Vietnam Joins BRICS – Strategic Expansion in 2025.
Latest Update
In June 2025, Vietnam officially joined BRICS, becoming the 10th member of the expanded grouping.
This reflects BRICS’ continued evolution into a multipolar counterweight to Western institutions like the G7.
Current BRICS Membership (Post-Expansion)
Core Members (Founding)
New Entrants (2023–2025)
Brazil
Egypt
Russia
Ethiopia
India
Iran
China
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Vietnam (2025)
Why Vietnam’s Entry is Significant
Geostrategic Balance
Vietnam brings ASEAN representation into BRICS.
Counters the perception of BRICS as being China-heavy, by including a strategic East Asian economy that has complex ties with China and the West.
Economic Credentials
Vietnam is among the fastest-growing economies in Asia, with 2024 growth estimated at 5.9% (World Bank).
Hub for global manufacturing, electronics, and semiconductors.
Political Non-Alignment
Vietnam follows a non-aligned foreign policy, reinforcing BRICS’ image as a diverse, sovereign-oriented grouping.
South-South Cooperation
Enhances Global South representation in alternative financial and developmental platforms like the New Development Bank (NDB).
GS Paper Linkages
GS Paper
Relevance
GS Paper II
International Groupings – BRICS, ASEAN, Global South
GS Paper III
Economic Diplomacy, South-South Cooperation
Essay
“India’s role in a changing multipolar world” or “Shifting power centres”
Impact on India
Positive
Challenges
Reinforces India’s Act East Policy
May see increasing China-Vietnam influence rivalry
Improves BRICS diversity and legitimacy
Greater pressure on BRICS to reform internally
Opens bilateral economic avenues
Risk of bloc dilution with too many voices
BRICS at a Glance (2025)
Parameter
Details
Total Members
10
Combined GDP
Over 35% of global GDP (PPP)
Population
~47% of global population
Institutions
NDB, BRICS Contingent Reserve
Aspirations
Reform of UNSC, WTO, IMF
Practice Mains Question
“Evaluate the strategic relevance of Vietnam’s entry into BRICS in the context of BRICS’ expansion and India’s foreign policy priorities.” (10/15 marks)
Way Forward for India
Use BRICS platform to promote reformed multilateralism.
Strengthen India–Vietnam ties through defence, maritime security, and trade.
Ensure BRICS does not get overly influenced by China-centric or authoritarian interests.
