The Brazilian government has submitted an official request for full membership in the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a new step in its participation in global energy governance. The announcement was made during a meeting at the IEA headquarters, where Ambassador Sarquis J.B. Sarquis delivered a letter signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira and Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira to IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.
The letter emphasises the importance Brazil places on its relationship with the IEA, highlighting enhanced cooperation on energy policies, supply security, data and statistics. It also points to the country’s oil-exporting capacity, as well as its diversified energy mix, which includes large-scale renewable sources and a developed biofuels sector.
A major energy partner in Latin America
Brazil is currently the largest country in Latin America in terms of population and economic strength. As a net producer and exporter of oil, it plays a strategic role in maintaining global energy security. The country, which joined the IEA as an Association member in 2017, has been steadily strengthening its presence in international energy decision-making forums.
The IEA currently has 32 member countries and four others undergoing accession. Thirteen countries, including Brazil until now, hold Association status. Brazil’s accession as a full member would strengthen the organisation’s representation in South America, a region still under-represented in global energy governance.
A context of expanded cooperation with the IEA
This year has been marked by an in-depth review of Brazil’s energy policies by the IEA, underlining the growing bilateral engagement. This collaboration comes at a time when Brazil is assuming greater diplomatic responsibilities, including the G20 presidency in 2024 and the COP30 climate conference presidency this year.
The request for membership also reflects Brazil’s ambition to consolidate its influence on global energy issues, as challenges related to supply security and long-term energy planning intensify. The IEA’s Executive Director welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major development in the international governance of the sector.
