Recent Central Bank Digital Currency Developments in Asia and Their Implications

Analyzes the evolution of CBDCs in Asia and the Pacific, assesses potential risks and technical challenges, and shows their potential to improve cross-border payments and financial inclusion. Ahead of the launch of any large-scale Asian CBDC, it details various models and explores how Cambodia, China, Singapore, and Thailand are taking the lead. This publication analyzes the evolution of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC) in Asia and the Pacific, assesses their potential risks and technical challenges, and shows their potential to improve cross-border payments and financial inclusion. Ahead of the launch of any large-scale Asian CBDC, it details various models and explores how Cambodia,the People's Republic of China, Singapore, and Thailand are taking the lead. Outlining global developments and emerging trends, it shows why a robust digital infrastructure, strong public–private collaboration, and fintech literacy are central to ensuring CBDCs help drive the transition to a digital economy.