Auckland, Sep 11 (The Conversation) The global landscape is shifting, and with U.S. President Donald Trump's stance on free trade, international organizations, and human rights, smaller nations like New Zealand are re-evaluating their foreign strategies. As the economic and diplomatic spotlight tilts towards Asia and the Indo-Pacific, alternative multilateral alliances are gaining traction.
Among these, BRICS—a coalition with substantial global influence—stands out. Formed in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining in 2010, BRICS has evolved into a formidable center of economic power. New Zealand's potential membership remains in question, but BRICS already hosts crucial partners for New Zealand's future.
The essence of BRICS is rooted in consensus and solidarity rather than coercion, aiming for member benefits through collective strength. Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2009 emphasized a shared vision for inclusive growth, prosperity, and a stable, rule-based global order.
With significant economies, populations, and ambitions, BRICS embodies a shift towards a multipolar world—a shift differently accelerated under Trump’s “America first” approach.
In addressing mutual concerns like food security, energy, terrorism, and climate change, BRICS members signed the 2012 Delhi Declaration to promote global peace and enhance emerging countries’ roles in global governance.
The launch of the New Development Bank in 2013 was a critical step. This institution seeks to fund sustainable development and infrastructure in developing countries, positioning itself as an alternative to Western counterparts like the World Bank and IMF.
The significance of BRICS has grown with its expansion. In 2024, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE joined, followed by Indonesia in 2025. Although Argentina initially agreed to join in 2024, it withdrew after the election of pro-U.S. President Javier Milei.
This expansion increased BRICS' share of global GDP to 39% in 2023, with member states accounting for nearly half the world's population and over a third of the total land area.
Economically, BRICS outperformed the G7 nations since approximately 2019, with substantial shares in rare minerals, oil, natural gas, and coal production.
Diplomatically, BRICS aims for synchronized national policies by meeting during major forums like the UN General Assembly and G20. This platform offers nations a chance to expand trade and diplomacy, providing a buffer against U.S.-driven instability.
While joining BRICS entails risks, particularly in Western relations, Trump's threatened trade tariffs against BRICS-aligned nations have not yet materialized. Economist Stephen Onyeiwu notes that, excluding Russia and Iran, most BRICS members maintain alliances or neutrality towards Western interests.
New Zealand might hesitate to deepen ties with Russia and Iran, but BRICS membership could offer diplomatic engagements to address member state actions.
Historically, New Zealand has joined the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank and maintained a Free Trade Agreement with China without unfavorable outcomes. New BRICS members can request membership or obtain “observer” status, participating in special summits but holding limited influence.
Notably, New Zealand's potential BRICS membership wouldn't necessitate exiting other multilateral organizations. Strategically, it represents an opportunity for New Zealand to broaden its diplomatic reach, anticipating Asia and the Indo-Pacific's growing global influence. (The Conversation) SKS
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