RMB Internationalization

The internationalization of the renminbi (RMB) is viewed by some experts as a potential challenge to the US dollar's (USD) hegemonic status in the current global monetary system. This study employs a mixed theoretical framework to delve into the prospective evolution of China’s monetary influence. By applying the power transition theory to analyze the global monetary power structure, this study evaluates China’s dissatisfaction as a potential challenger against the dominance of the USD and examines the power parity between China and the United States. On a regional scale, the analysis focuses on possible Asian monetary integration of the RMB-domination by adopting the neofunctionalist paradigm derived from the European experience and juxtaposing this process with European monetary integration. The analysis shows that China has not been able to directly challenge the dominance of the USD, nor has it effectively spearheaded the agenda for regional monetary integration. More specifically, China’s export-oriented growth model has hindered the emergence of the RMB as a substantial competition to the USD within East and South Asia.