At least six Chinese commercial banks have been permitted to add the baht, among about a dozen currencies, to direct yuan settlement. For exporters and importers trading with China, this could cut dollar conversion steps, payment time and fees, but only if banks offer competitive rates. The Thai National Shippers' Council says firms should pick the settlement currency per transaction, weighing partner, cost structure, revenue and expense currencies, and hedging costs. If you receive yuan and need baht quickly, compare exchange rates and fees first. Nothing changes immediately; ask your bank whether it offers baht-yuan settlement and what it charges.