8 Best Ways to Send Money from Brazil to China (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: Best Options for 2026

For frequent transfers from Brazil to China in 2026, Panda Remit and Wise are the top recommendations due to their integration with Chinese digital wallets (Alipay and WeChat Pay) and competitive mid-market exchange rates. While Western Union remains a viable option for cash pickups, digital providers offer significantly lower spreads compared to traditional Brazilian banks like Banco do Brasil or Itaú, which often charge high SWIFT fees. Always verify the current IOF (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras) rates before initiating a transfer.

Why "Best for Frequent Transfers" Matters for Migration

For Brazilian expatriates, trade workers, and migrants sending funds to China, the cost of recurring remittances can erode savings. In 2026, the volatility between the Brazilian Real (BRL) and the Chinese Yuan (CNY) requires services that offer rate locking and low fixed fees. Frequent transfers demand a provider that supports instant funding methods like PIX in Brazil and direct payouts to digital wallets in China, bypassing the slower traditional banking networks.

Comparison: Sending Money from Brazil to China

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

Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialized corridor provider for Asia. For users in Brazil, it allows funding via PIX, ensuring rapid processing. Its primary advantage lies in its official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay, allowing funds to arrive directly in the recipient's digital wallet within minutes. This bypasses the complexity of Chinese bank account numbers (CNAPS).

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is favored for its commitment to the mid-market exchange rate (the rate seen on Google). They charge a transparent upfront fee rather than hiding costs in the exchange rate markup. While highly reliable, their verification processes for BRL transfers can sometimes be stricter regarding source of funds compared to other fintechs.

3. Western Union

Western Union remains the leader for physical reach. If the recipient in China does not have a bank account or smartphone access, Western Union’s vast network of agent locations allows for cash pickup. However, the exchange rate margins are typically wider than digital-first competitors.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money internationally involves strict adherence to financial regulations in both the sending and receiving countries.

Brazil: Banco Central do Brasil (BACEN)

All foreign exchange transactions in Brazil are monitored by BACEN. Users must pay the IOF (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras). As of 2026, the standard IOF for transfers to third parties is typically 0.38%, while transfers to your own account abroad may attract a rate of 1.1%. Ensure your provider automatically calculates and collects this tax to avoid fines.

China: State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE)

China maintains strict capital controls. Under SAFE regulations, Chinese nationals have an annual foreign exchange settlement quota equivalent to USD 50,000. Transfers exceeding this limit may be blocked or require extensive documentation proving the source of funds (e.g., salary slips, tax returns).

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

While this guide focuses on Brazil, Panda Remit's infrastructure is particularly robust in Asian corridors. For example, in the JPY to CNY corridor, Panda Remit is often cited for offering superior transparency compared to traditional Japanese banks. This global infrastructure benefits BRL users because the underlying payout network—connected to UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay—is the same. These official partnerships act as trust signals, ensuring that the service is compliant with Chinese payment network standards.

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 services claim "Zero Fees" but add a 2-4% markup on the exchange rate. Always compare the offered rate against the live market rate.
• IOF Variations: Be aware that sending money to a dependent vs. a service provider can trigger different IOF tax brackets in Brazil.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

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. However, for large amounts, you must ensure the recipient in China has not exceeded their USD 50,000 annual foreign exchange quota set by SAFE. You may be asked to provide source-of-funds documentation.

How can I avoid high SWIFT fees when sending money from Brazil?

To avoid SWIFT fees, use digital remittance providers like Panda Remit or Wise that utilize local payout networks (local bank transfers or digital wallets) rather than the international SWIFT network used by traditional banks.

Does the recipient in China need a bank account to receive funds?

Not necessarily. If you use services integrated with Alipay or WeChat Pay, the recipient needs a verified account on those platforms linked to a debit card. For Western Union, they only need an ID for cash pickup.

What is the fastest way to transfer money from Brazil to China?

Funding your transfer via PIX in Brazil and selecting Alipay or WeChat Pay as the delivery method is generally the fastest option, with funds often arriving in minutes.

Do I have to pay taxes when sending money from Brazil?

Yes, virtually all international transfers from Brazil are subject to the IOF tax. Compliant providers will include this calculation in the total cost before you finalize the transfer.