The internationalization of the RMB: where does the RMB currently stand in the process of internationalization

Abstract

Renminbi (RMB) internationalisation has been a topic for lively discussion since China accelerated its promotion of the RMB's status as a leading international currency in 2009. China has undertaken some concrete steps to push forward RMB internationalisation such as the Pilot Scheme of Cross-Border Trade Settlement in the RMB, RMB Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor, Dim Sum bonds, and bilateral currency swap agreements. Where the RMB stands in the process of becoming an international currency is assessed by reviewing the progress China has made and analysing the challenges China faces in internationalising its currency. Based on this assessment, a roadmap for internationalising the RMB is drawn from two perspectives: the functions of the RMB as an international currency and the scope of RMB use in the global financial system. A possible roadmap for RMB internationalisation is to begin from RMB settlement in cross-border trade, followed by regionalisation of the RMB, and finally globalisation. With respect to achieving the functions of an international currency, the RMB should first become a settlement currency, then a denomination currency, and lastly, a reserve currency.