BRICS CBDC: China & UAE Spearhead SWIFT Alternative - A New Era of Global Finance
The BRICS bloc, led by China, is actively developing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) poised to replace or offer a significant alternative to the SWIFT system. This bold move signifies a major shift away from U.S. dollar dominance in global finance and aims to foster greater financial independence for member nations. Amid enhanced de-dollarization efforts, the alliance is accelerating its plans for a CBDC alternative to the Western SWIFT system, spearheaded by China.
China & UAE: A Pioneering Partnership
In a landmark development for the BRICS alliance, China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) completed the first cross-border Central Bank Digital Currency transaction (reported 2 de feb. de 2025). This signals a deepening cooperation and a concrete step towards realizing a functional and widely adopted BRICS CBDC.
Why a SWIFT Alternative?
The BRICS nations are seeking to reduce their reliance on the SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) system, which is largely controlled by Western economies. The goal is to create a more resilient and independent financial infrastructure. As reported 29 de abr. de 2025, BRICS continues to develop a cross-border payment system that would provide an alternative to SWIFT and minimize reliance on the dollar. Success in the endeavor would lead to greater economic sovereignty.
China's Role and CIPS
China is playing a crucial role in this initiative, leveraging its technological advancements and economic influence. For instance, China has already developed the Cross-Border Interbank Payments System (CIPS). Russia, as reported 18 de abr. de 2025, would like to see these systems integrated across the BRICS nations to enhance interoperability and efficiency.
BRICS CBDC: What to Expect
The development of a BRICS CBDC is expected to unfold over the coming years. The official launch of China’s long-anticipated alternative to the SWIFT payment system, ushering in a new era, was a key milestone (reported 28 de abr. de 2025). While specific details are still emerging, the goal is to create a secure, efficient, and accessible cross-border payment system that facilitates trade and investment among BRICS nations and beyond. The projected timeline anticipates significant progress by 8 de nov. de 2025.
Keywords: BRICS, CBDC, SWIFT, China, UAE, Cross-Border Payments, CIPS, De-dollarization, Central Bank Digital Currency, Global Finance, Alternative Payment System.