RBI Discusses Cross-Border CBDC Framework with 4-5 Countries

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is in discussions with 4-5 countries to develop cross-border transaction frameworks for central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) covering both wholesale and retail uses. In 2025-26, Indians abroad remitted over $107 billion, highlighting the importance of affordable and faster transfers. The RBI has piloted wholesale CBDC since November 2022 and retail since December 2022, with retail transactions exceeding 120 million and around 8 million users currently engaged. A formal agreement among BRICS members for CBDC linkage has also been proposed to simplify cross-border payments.