- The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) has been testing its digital currency, e-CNY, through public pilots since 2020.
- Zhou Xiaochuan recommends prioritizing security in developing CBDC.
- He also emphasized combating money laundering and arms trading, often facilitated by cryptocurrencies.
Zhou Xiaochuan, ex-governor of the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), advised developers of the nation’s central bank digital currency to prioritize security, cost-efficiency, and preventing illicit use.
In remarks at a Beijing forum, Zhou said security is especially crucial in finance and currency systems. He warned that as technology improves convenience, it can also enable abuse.
Zhou said a key focus should be combating money laundering and arms trading, often facilitated by cryptocurrencies. China needs safeguards against digital yuan exploitation by criminal elements.
PBOC has been testing its e-CNY
The PBOC has been testing its digital currency, known as the e-CNY, through public pilots since 2020. Zhou recommends retaining the two-tiered distribution model, with the PBOC issuing tokens and commercial firms providing access.
This dynamic framework can enhance innovation and service levels through competition, which is important for a large country, Zhou stated.
He also highlighted cross-border interoperability as a key area for digital currency development. This involves both technical and policy considerations.
As a former head of the central bank, Zhou’s guidance carries significant influence over the digital yuan rollout. His remarks signal that balancing utility and security will be crucial for e-CNY adoption.
China’s digital currency has already seen notable traction in trials. Ensuring it doesn’t enable unintended harm will be vital for sustainable mainstream acceptance going forward.
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