Pakistan is likely to join the BRICS bloc as a full member during its 18th or 19th annual summit, scheduled for 2025 or 2026. Diplomatic sources suggest that growing support from China and Russia has significantly strengthened Pakistan’s prospects. This potential membership is expected to unlock opportunities for expanded economic partnerships, increased foreign direct investment, and advancements in trade diversification, industrialization, and artificial intelligence development across Pakistan’s economy.
Pakistan officially applied for BRICS membership in 2023, aiming to strengthen economic cooperation with the group’s member states. BRICS currently includes 10 full members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia, which joined in January 2025. Additionally, 11 countries hold observer or partner status, while Vietnam became a BRICS partner earlier this year. Pakistan’s inclusion would further expand the bloc’s influence and highlight its growing importance in global economic and political affairs.
The expanded “greater BRICS” format already represents more than half of the world’s population, nearly 30% of global GDP, and 20% of total world trade. Despite previous opposition from India regarding Pakistan’s entry, China, Russia, and several other members have actively supported Islamabad’s bid. This momentum reflects the bloc’s commitment to inclusive cooperation and the strategic value of Pakistan’s participation in strengthening regional stability and economic connectivity.
According to recent data from the IMF, BRICS achieved a GDP growth rate of 4% in 2024, surpassing the global average. The bloc accounts for 31% of the world’s land area, 46% of its population, and approximately 40% of global oil production and reserves. Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized multilateralism and cooperation during a BRICS Virtual Summit, highlighting efforts to create an alternative financial system and reduce dependence on the US dollar through de-dollarization initiatives.
If Pakistan’s membership is confirmed, economic strategist Dr. Mehmoodul Hassan Khan believes it will bring significant socio-economic, geopolitical, and geostrategic benefits. He also noted that Pakistan-US relations are improving, with growing American investments in mining, renewables, education, health, and metals sectors. Dr. Khan added that Pakistan’s inclusion in BRICS would have minimal negative effects, considering its emerging regional role and proactive diplomatic efforts to balance relationships with both BRICS members and Western partners.