Argentina Boosts Yuan Adoption, Accelerating De-Dollarization Trend
Argentina has opted to settle part of its debt with the IMF using the Chinese yuan, marking the first time it has done so.
This decision aligns with a growing trend among countries to increase their reliance on the yuan while reducing dependence on the US dollar. Experts believe this move will significantly impact emerging economies, which have been negatively affected by US rate hikes and inflation. As more countries pivot toward the yuan to mitigate risks, its internationalization is expected to accelerate.
Argentina fulfilled a payment obligation of $1 billion in yuan to the IMF and $1.7 billion disbursed in Special Drawing Rights. The Central Bank of Argentina has also permitted financial institutions to accept the yuan as a currency for deposits, allowing individuals and legal entities to open checking and savings accounts denominated in yuan.
This decision to expand the use of the yuan reflects Argentina’s efforts to address its debt crisis and reduce reliance on the US dollar. This move is likely to influence other emerging economies facing similar challenges. These economies are grappling with issues such as currency depreciation, capital outflow, and debt crises, primarily driven by rising US interest rates.
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The stable exchange rate of the yuan enhances its appeal as an international currency, particularly due to its risk-averse nature. Argentina’s choice to deepen its reliance on the yuan is seen as a step toward de-dollarization. The yuan’s gains are also attributed to China’s economic power, offering certainty and confidence amid global uncertainties.
The internationalization of the yuan has gained momentum as many countries seek alternatives to the US dollar to reduce dependence on it. For instance, Pakistan recently settled an oil import deal with Russia using the yuan. The yuan is becoming increasingly popular in Russia, with a significant portion of trade settlements between Russia and China conducted in yuan and the Russian ruble. As a result, more countries are advocating for trade to be conducted in their own currencies.