China is taking measured steps to broaden access to its financial markets during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), presenting a growing range of opportunities for international investors. Officials and experts indicate that reforms will focus on enhancing market access, improving exchange rate flexibility, and refining cross-border transaction mechanisms. The goal is to provide a stable and predictable environment for holding and using the Chinese currency, while aligning domestic financial infrastructure with international investment practices.

As global monetary structures evolve and reliance on the dollar faces increasing uncertainty, China's approach is gradual, market-driven, and guided by prudence. Incremental reforms aim to integrate investment channels, encourage qualified overseas institutions to issue onshore bonds denominated in local currency, and expand access to derivatives and other financial instruments. These measures provide investors with broader participation options while maintaining effective oversight and financial stability.

Financial institutions and regulators are adopting a methodical approach. Guan Tao, global chief economist at BOCI China, emphasizes that gradual capital account liberalization is essential for facilitating cross-border investment and the use of China's currency. Future steps are likely to follow a cautious, phased model, balancing investor confidence with systemic safety. The approach reflects a long-standing principle of step-by-step progress, allowing markets to adjust and investors to gain clarity.

International stakeholders are responding to the expanded access. Marshall Mills, IMF senior resident representative in China, notes that as China's global trade role grows, investor engagement with domestic financial markets is expanding naturally. Predictable frameworks, clearer regulations, and enhanced participation channels are making China's markets more attractive for long-term investment.

Domestic experts highlight the importance of expanding financial instruments to attract global capital. Wu Xiaoqiu, dean of the National Academy of Financial Research at Renmin University, suggests increasing the issuance of government bonds to provide risk-free assets for investors. Tian Xuan, president of Tsinghua University’s National Institute of Financial Research, underscores opening onshore derivatives markets, including government bond and stock index futures, to align with international investment practices.