Local Currency Trade: For decades, the global economy revolved around the US dollar, but the dynamics are now changing. Rising geopolitical tensions, fear of sanctions and currency volatility are pushing many nations to rethink their reliance on the dollar.
This shift combines economic decisions with strategic planning. Which countries are trading in their own currency and why?
The answer shows a change that could guide global trade for years to come.
Breaking Free From Dollar Dependence
The US dollar has long been the most trusted currency for international trade. But the risks associated with sanctions, transaction costs and fluctuating exchange rates are driving nations to seek alternatives.
Trading in local currency, often called “local currency settlement”, offers relief for payment balances, reduces pressure on foreign reserves and strengthens economic sovereignty.
India’s Strategic Moves
India has been actively promoting trade in rupees. With Russia, transactions for oil, coal and defense deals are conducted in rubles and yuan. Even during sanctions periods, trade with Iran has involved rupee-based payments.
Neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan accept the Indian rupee, while Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have experimented with limited local currency settlements.
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have also established a rupee-dirham trade framework, opening new avenues in the Gulf region.
China’s Yuan Push
China is aggressively promoting the yuan internationally. A large portion of trade between Russia and China, especially energy and raw materials, now takes place in yuan and ruble.
Some oil deals with Saudi Arabia have begun using yuan, pointing to a shift in the energy market. Across Africa and Latin America, the yuan is increasingly used for infrastructure projects and loans.
Russia Adjusts After Sanctions
Western sanctions following the Ukraine war have forced Russia away from the dollar and euro. In response, Moscow has expanded ruble-based payments with partners in Asia, Central Asia and Turkey.
Alternative currency arrangements with India and China have played a crucial role in keeping Russian trade flowing.
Gulf, Latin America And Africa Lead Experiments
The dollar still dominates the Gulf, but countries like the UAE are gradually adopting local currency options. In Latin America, Brazil and Argentina have agreed to use their own currencies for bilateral trade.
In Africa, some countries are experimenting with local currency or barter models with China and Russia to reduce dollar exposure.
Europe And Alternative Payment Systems
Within the European Union, trade naturally happens in euros. To maintain trade with Iran, Europe has developed alternative payment mechanisms such as INSTEX, which allows transactions outside the dollar-dominated system.
Why Local Currency Trade Matters
Trading in local currency reduces transaction costs, mitigates currency risk and protects nations from sanctions. While the dollar is central to global commerce, local currency trade is gaining momentum in a multipolar world.
This gradual change shows a trajectory that economic strategy is evolving, and the dollar’s global dominance may face increasing challenges.
