It originated in China before being introduced to neighboring countries in East Asia.
[1] On June 25, 1959, the State Council of the People's Republic of China issued the "Order on the Unified Measurement System", retaining the market measure system, with minor amendment.
[9] In Hong Kong, one li is equal to 1/10 fen, which is 37.799 mg or 0.037799 grams.
[3] Singapore and Malaysia have similar regulations as Hong Kong, as they are all former British colonies.
[4] In Vietnam, 1 li or ly is equal to 37.8 mg (i.e., 0.038 grams) or 1/10 fen by traditional value.