The People’s Bank of China has updated its official digital yuan app to allow overseas visitors to China to purchase the central bank digital currency (CBDC) using foreign credit and debit cards.
The change comes as China showcases the digital yuan during the Asian Games in Hangzhou from September 21 to October 8. This marks the first time foreigners can use the mobile e-CNY wallet app after being limited to “hard wallets” at previous events like the Winter Olympics.
Now, visitors can download the app from Chinese marketplaces and create a wallet by depositing at least 100 yuan (about $14) from their foreign cards. Leftover funds can be refunded when departing China by transferring back to their overseas accounts.
Unlike past efforts where foreigners could only use the digital yuan at brick-and-mortar stores, visitors can now spend e-CNY online via platforms like Meituan, DiDi, and JD.com. This provides access to ride-sharing, transport, food delivery, and e-commerce.
The central bank has also launched English customer service to aid international visitors with digital yuan transactions during the Asian Games. By expanding acceptance avenues, China aims to showcase the utility of its CBDC to a global audience.
