Pakistan is expected to secure full membership of BRICS during either its 18th or 19th annual summit in 2025 or 2026, according to diplomatic sources. The development marks a major shift in Pakistan’s global economic outreach as the bloc continues to grow in influence.
Pakistan formally applied for membership in 2023 with the aim of strengthening economic ties with the grouping. BRICS currently comprises 10 full members, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia, which joined in January 2025. Eleven other nations hold observer or partner status, with Vietnam most recently joining as a partner in June 2025.
Economic strategist Dr. Mehmoodul Hassan Khan said Pakistan’s inclusion would accelerate industrialisation, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence initiatives while boosting inflows of foreign direct investment. He noted that despite India’s previous opposition, support from China, Russia, and other members has significantly improved Pakistan’s prospects.
BRICS has emerged as a powerful driver of global growth, accounting for 46% of the world’s population, 31% of land area, and 20% of trade.
According to the IMF, the bloc achieved 4% GDP growth in 2024, outpacing the global average. Its oil reserves and production represent around 40% of global energy, underscoring its growing strategic weight.
China’s President Xi Jinping has urged BRICS to pursue multilateralism and strengthen an alternative financial system, seen as a step toward de-dollarisation.
Dr. Khan stressed that Pakistan’s BRICS entry would have minimal negative repercussions given its strengthening relations with the United States, which has increased investments in Pakistan’s mining, renewable energy, education, and health sectors.