Vietnam has officially joined the BRICS bloc as a partner country, becoming the fourth ASEAN nation to align with the influential Global South coalition. The announcement, made by Brazil in its capacity as rotating BRICS chair, marks a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s foreign policy and ASEAN’s broader economic realignment amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Vietnam now joins Malaysia, Thailand, and full-member Indonesia in strengthening ASEAN’s engagement with BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The move reflects Hanoi’s strategic intent to diversify trade partnerships, reduce reliance on traditional markets, and amplify its geopolitical voice on the global stage.
“Vietnam’s entry into BRICS underscores our commitment to multilateralism, South-South cooperation, and sustainable development,” said Pham Thu Hang, spokesperson for Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The BRICS bloc, now expanded to include 10 partner countries, aims to foster deeper collaboration among emerging economies. Vietnam’s inclusion is expected to unlock new avenues for investment, infrastructure development, and people-to-people exchanges, including tourism and education initiatives.
According to Lavanya Venkateswaran, Senior ASEAN Economist at OCBC, “This development highlights ASEAN’s growing priority to broaden economic relationships and deepen integration with the Global South.”
Vietnam’s dynamic economy—deeply embedded in global value chains—positions it as a key player in Asia’s evolving trade architecture. Analysts suggest the move will enhance Vietnam’s strategic autonomy and bolster its role in shaping a more inclusive international order.
