Yes, I can also confirm this.

Outside of Bank of China there is usually a man who will exchange money for you. Although the exchange rate is a little higher, it has little affect overall.

Once you have US dollars you can go to Agriculture Bank of China with your passport and money and Western Union them to anywhere and anyone you would like in the World.

The second way is to have your Chinese friend exchange the money for you. Chinese citizens can easily do this. Foreigners cannot easily exchange money legally through the banks, and only a few select banks can offer this service. If you try to do it yourself legally you will need the following:
1. alien resident permit/work permit
2. passport
3. income tax receipts
4. employment contract