digihuman(BJ:835670) Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-06-18 12:14Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Digital Renminbi International Operation Center is a significant step towards enhancing the internationalization of the Renminbi and promoting cross-border payment and trade development, particularly benefiting Shanghai's financial market [2][4][7]. Group 1: Digital Renminbi Development - The Digital Renminbi pilot program was officially launched by the People's Bank of China at the end of 2019, following a gradual approach that includes domestic and international scenarios [3]. - As of the end of 2024, the Digital Renminbi pilot has covered 26 cities across 17 provinces, reaching one-fifth of the national population [3]. - Different cities like Suzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai have focused on various innovative applications of the Digital Renminbi, such as smart contracts and cross-border payment innovations [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Reform Initiatives - In addition to the Digital Renminbi International Operation Center, eight financial opening measures were announced, including comprehensive reforms for offshore trade financial services in Shanghai [5]. - The Shanghai International Financial Center aims to enhance cross-border financial service convenience, supporting the Digital Renminbi pilot banks in participating in multilateral central bank digital currency bridge projects [5]. Group 3: Cross-Border Payment Focus - Hong Kong is identified as the largest offshore Renminbi business hub, handling approximately 80% of global offshore Renminbi payment amounts [6]. - The establishment of the Digital Renminbi International Operation Center is seen as a strategic move to enhance cross-border payment efficiency and reduce costs significantly [6][7]. - The use of emerging technologies like blockchain and smart contracts is expected to reshape traditional payment systems and improve cross-border payment processes [7]. Group 4: Challenges and Considerations - While the Digital Renminbi International Operation Center presents opportunities, it also faces challenges in collaboration with other countries' central banks and standardization of technology [8].