digihuman(BJ:835670) Cai Jing Wang·2026-01-05 05:18Core Viewpoint - The successful completion of the first cross-border digital payment using digital RMB in Laos marks a significant advancement in the bilateral digital payment cooperation between China and Laos, showcasing the practical application of digital RMB for Chinese residents abroad [1][4]. Group 1: Digital RMB Implementation - The first transaction involved a Chinese tourist making a payment of 3,000 LAK (approximately 0.99 CNY) at a merchant in Laos using the digital RMB app, eliminating the need for currency exchange [2][3]. - The transaction was processed through the Ant Group's subsidiary, MyBank, which is one of the first institutions to operate digital RMB [3]. Group 2: Bilateral Cooperation Framework - In 2024, the People's Bank of China and the Bank of the Lao People's Democratic Republic signed a memorandum to enhance cooperation on digital payments and central bank digital currencies [4]. - The first phase of the bilateral cross-border digital payment cooperation project began in December 2025, focusing on the interconnection of digital RMB payment platforms with Laos' national payment network (LAPNet) [4]. - The project aims to facilitate the use of digital RMB for cross-border trade and payments, with future phases planned to support Lao residents using their digital wallets in China [4]. Group 3: Strategic Alignment - The initiative aligns with China's broader strategy to enhance the international use of the RMB and support regional economic cooperation, particularly in Southeast Asia [3][4]. - The successful implementation of the digital RMB in Laos is expected to expand its cross-border application and explore cost-effective methods for cross-border payments [3].