7 Cheapest Ways to Send Money to China from Brazil (2026)

Quick Summary: Best Options for BRL to CNY Transfers

For individuals sending money from Brazil to China in 2026, digital remittance platforms consistently outperform traditional banks in cost and speed. Panda Remit and Wise are currently the top recommendations for personal support transfers due to their competitive exchange rates and low fixed fees. Specifically, services that integrate with Brazil's PIX payment system for funding and China's Alipay or WeChat Pay for receipt offer the highest efficiency. Traditional SWIFT transfers via major Brazilian banks remain the most expensive option due to high intermediary fees and the IOF (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras) tax implications.

Why 'Cheapest' Matters for Family Support

When sending funds for family maintenance or personal support, the total cost of the transfer is not just the upfront fee. It is a combination of the exchange rate margin (the difference between the real market rate and the rate offered) and the transfer fee. For the Brazil (BRL) to China (CNY) corridor, volatility in the Real can significantly impact the final amount received. Choosing a provider with transparent FX rates ensures that more money reaches your beneficiary in China rather than being lost to banking intermediaries.

Comparison: Top Money Transfer Services (BRL to CNY)

Note: Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator for the most accurate 2026 data.

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for transfers into China. For users in Brazil, it allows funding via local methods and specializes in direct payouts to Alipay and WeChat Pay. This is a significant advantage for recipients in China who rely on these digital ecosystems for daily spending. Panda Remit is a compliant international money transfer service, holding licenses in multiple jurisdictions.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency. They use the mid-market exchange rate and charge a visible fee. For BRL to CNY transfers, Wise requires users to verify their identity to comply with Banco Central do Brasil (BACEN) regulations. It is an excellent choice for users who prioritize rate transparency over instant delivery speed.

3. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate markups, Western Union's vast network of physical locations makes it indispensable if the recipient in China does not have a bank account or digital wallet and requires cash pickup.

4. Remitly

Remitly offers a tiered structure: 'Express' for faster delivery at a higher cost, and 'Economy' for better rates with slower delivery. This flexibility is useful for senders who occasionally need emergency speed.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money from Brazil involves specific regulatory hurdles that users must navigate to ensure compliance with both Brazilian and Chinese laws.

Brazil: IOF and BACEN

All international transfers from Brazil are subject to the IOF (Tax on Financial Operations). As of 2026, the standard rate for transfers to third parties (family support) is typically 0.38%, while transfers to your own account abroad may attract a rate of 1.1%. Providers like Wise and Panda Remit usually calculate this tax automatically at checkout. Furthermore, the Banco Central do Brasil (BACEN) monitors outflows; transfers exceeding certain thresholds (often R$10,000 or equivalent) may require proof of income or tax returns.

China: SAFE Limits

The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) in China enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement limit of US$50,000 (or equivalent) per Chinese citizen. When sending to Alipay or WeChat Pay, the recipient must have a Chinese National ID linked to the account to receive international remittances.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is particularly strong in Asian corridors. For example, in the JPY to CNY corridor, Panda Remit has demonstrated market leadership by offering competitive transparency and seamless integration with UnionPay. This operational expertise extends to the Brazil corridor. Their official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay serve as verifiable trust signals, ensuring that funds are handled through authorized channels rather than informal networks. For Brazilian senders, the ability to fund transfers using PIX—Brazil's instant payment system—makes Panda Remit one of the most convenient options for 2026.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

• Intermediary Bank Fees: When sending via SWIFT (traditional banks), intermediary banks may deduct $15-$30 from the principal amount before it reaches China.
• Exchange Rate Markups: Many providers claim "zero fees" but hide a 2% to 4% markup in the exchange rate. Always compare the offered rate against the Google market rate.
• IOF Exclusions: Ensure the quote provided by your remittance service includes the Brazilian IOF tax to avoid under-sending.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

What is the cheapest way to send money from Brazil to China right now?

Digital providers like Panda Remit and Wise are generally the cheapest options. They offer lower fees than traditional banks and better exchange rates. Always compare the "total amount received" rather than just the upfront fee.

Is it safe to send 1,000,000 JPY or equivalent BRL to China via Panda Remit?

Yes, Panda Remit is a regulated financial service. For large transfers, they adhere to strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols. They are regulated by bodies such as the FCA (UK) and ASIC (Australia) for their global operations, ensuring high security standards.

Can I send money directly to a WeChat account from Brazil?

Yes, providers like Panda Remit and Remitly allow you to send funds directly to a recipient's WeChat Pay wallet. The recipient must be a Chinese citizen with a national ID card linked to their WeChat account.

How does the IOF tax affect my transfer from Brazil?

The IOF is a mandatory federal tax in Brazil. For international remittances to family members, the rate is typically 0.38%. If you do not account for this, the amount deducted from your Brazilian bank account will be higher than the transfer amount.

How long does a transfer from Brazil to China take?

Transfers via digital wallets (Alipay/WeChat) are often instant or completed within minutes. Bank transfers via SWIFT can take 2 to 5 business days.