宋科：数字经济时代的人民币国际化之路

Core Viewpoint - The internationalization of the Renminbi (RMB) has progressed over 15 years, achieving significant milestones, and is now entering a new phase of cautious and steady advancement, particularly influenced by digital economy factors [1][2]. Group 1: Currency Digitalization and RMB Internationalization - Digital currency can enhance cross-border payment systems, improve payment processes, and reduce transaction costs, thereby facilitating RMB internationalization [3][6]. - The People's Bank of China is actively involved in the mBridge project, which aims to innovate cross-border payment systems and enhance the digital currency landscape [6][10]. - Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) can streamline cross-border payment processes, integrate fund and information flows, and improve payment efficiency, positively impacting the international use of the RMB [6][9]. Group 2: Trade Digitalization and RMB Internationalization - Trade digitalization is expected to optimize trade models, reduce costs, and enhance the international competitiveness of Chinese enterprises, thereby increasing the demand for RMB in international trade [11][12]. - The shift towards digital trade allows for improved negotiation power and currency choice in trade settlements, which can further promote RMB internationalization [13][14]. - Digital trade platforms are emerging, creating a digital ecosystem that supports various cross-border payment scenarios, enhancing the RMB's international usability [15][16]. Group 3: Financial Digitalization and RMB Internationalization - Digital finance, through technological innovation, can change financial product service models, enhance market depth and breadth, and promote low-cost, high-efficiency financial services, increasing the global use of the RMB [17][18]. - The development of digital finance can lower transaction costs and improve transaction efficiency, thereby encouraging the international use of the RMB [19][20]. - Digital finance can also enhance financial inclusivity, providing more accessible financial services to underserved populations, which can expand the RMB's application scenarios [19][20].