USD to CNY – Live Exchange Rate & Currency Converter

Convert US Dollar to Chinese Yuan Renminbi
Or
Convert Chinese Yuan Renminbi to US Dollar

About the Chinese Yuan (CNY / RMB)

💰 A Brief History

The official currency of China is the Renminbi (RMB), which translates to “People’s Currency.” The Yuan (CNY) is the basic unit of the Renminbi, often used interchangeably in global markets.

It was introduced in 1948 by the People’s Bank of China during the final years of the Chinese Civil War, replacing a chaotic mix of old regional currencies. Since then, it has grown to become a major player in the global economy.


🏦 The Role of the People’s Bank of China

The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) controls the issuance of currency and manages monetary policy. It uses a managed float system, meaning the Yuan’s value is allowed to fluctuate within a limited range but is heavily influenced by the central bank.

China closely monitors the exchange rate to support exports and maintain economic stability.


💵 Chinese Banknotes & Coins

The Renminbi comes in several denominations:

  • Banknotes: ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, and ¥100
  • Coins: ¥1, 1 jiao, 5 jiao (1 jiao = 1/10 Yuan)

Banknotes often feature Chairman Mao Zedong and scenic landmarks from different regions of China.

Fun fact: Despite being the second-largest economy, China still relies heavily on cash in rural areas, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate in urban centers.


🌍 CNY in the Global Market

The Chinese Yuan is now the 5th most used currency in global payments and has been added to the IMF’s basket of reserve currencies (SDRs) alongside the USD, EUR, GBP, and JPY.

It’s also a popular trade settlement currency in Asia and Africa, and China is gradually working to internationalize the Yuan, increasing its use in cross-border payments and foreign reserves.


Convert US Dollar to other World Currencies

Scroll to Top