What does China use instead of SWIFT?

Written by Editorial Team | Last Updated: August 2026

To facilitate cross-border renminbi (RMB) clearing and settlement operations independently of Western-dominated financial networks, China utilizes the Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS). Launched by the People's Bank of China, CIPS provides a dedicated, direct institutional payments infrastructure that allows international financial participants to process trade settlements, clear transactions, and transfer funds denominated in Chinese yuan globally, enhancing financial sovereignty and supporting currency internationalization efforts.

Related FAQs

Yes, China has established a comprehensive social insurance system that serves as its version of social security.

The primary head office SWIFT/BIC code for Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited is BKCHHKHHXXX (or BKCHHKHH for the 8-character bank code format).

The primary SWIFT/BIC code for Bank of Nanjing (formerly known as Nanjing City Commercial Bank) in China is NJCBCNBNXXX (frequently represented in its 8-character format as NJCBCNBN).

No, SWIFT codes (or BIC codes) are used globally, not just in India. They are a universal standard used by banks around the world to identify financial institutions when processing international fund transfers.

Deciding whether Bank of China stock represents a good investment depends heavily on an individual investor's risk tolerance, portfolio strategy, and outlook on the Chinese macroeconomic environment.