As global trade dynamics evolve—driven by protectionism, supply chain disruptions, and the rise of multipolar geopolitics—several smaller states are evaluating closer ties with BRICS.
These states see potential in membership or partnership with BRICS as a way to diversify trade, reduce reliance on Western-dominated economic systems, and gain influence in a shifting global order.
New Zealand has emerged in public debate as a country that may need to consider its position in relation to BRICS. While it hasn’t formally applied or declared intent to join, analysts suggest that the country is paying attention to BRICS’ expanding role.
In commentary published in The Conversation Australia & New Zealand, Associate Professor Chris Ogden argues that as global power shifts increasingly toward Asia and the Indo-Pacific, New Zealand should “spread its diplomatic wings” and explore whether engagement with BRICS could serve its foreign policy interests.
Another analysis via the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA) points out that New Zealand faces a dilemma: many of its current alignments are with Western democracies, and some concern exists over how association with BRICS might be perceived, especially in light of Russia’s involvement with the alliance.
Notably, New Zealand has been involved in multilateral institutions like the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and in its foreign policy rhetoric officials have emphasised maintaining “global partnerships [that are] not exclusively with those mirroring our views.” This suggests that while full membership or observer status in BRICS is not yet an active pursuit, the idea is being contemplated in diplomatic-analytical circles.
Drivers and Opportunities
Several factors are pushing smaller states—including New Zealand—to consider BRICS-related alignment:
- Trade diversification: Smaller economies are vulnerable when a few markets dominate exports. BRICS offers access to large and growing markets like China, India, UAE, and others.
- Financial institutions: The New Development Bank (NDB) offers infrastructure and investment funding alternatives to Western-led institutions.
- Geopolitical hedge: Engaging with BRICS can serve as a way to hedge risk in a shifting global order, balancing influence among multiple power centres.
Risks and Considerations
- Ideological and alliance tension: New Zealand, for example, maintains strong ties with Western countries and has taken positions (e.g. on Ukraine) that could complicate closer alignment with blocs where Russia plays a central role.
- Reputational risks: Association with any group means potential exposure to controversies or policies of member states.
- Limited influence in large blocs: As a smaller economy, New Zealand would need to assess how much influence it could realistically exert within BRICS structure, particularly if the group solidifies more formal governance.
While New Zealand has not announced any formal plan to join BRICS, the debate in academic and policy circles suggests the country is carefully weighing its options. As BRICS continues to expand membership and influence, including with countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, nations outside the alliance are reassessing where they stand.
For New Zealand, engaging with BRICS might mean applying to be a partner or observer country—or simply deepening diplomatic and trade interactions without full membership. Either way, the shifts in global trade and diplomatic alignments make BRICS a grouping that smaller states cannot ignore.
In the photo above: 07 July 2025 – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva holds the hands of leaders posing for a family photo at the BRICS Summit in Rio. Photo: Alex Ferro/BRICSBRASIL
