Alipay+ now enables users from 14 overseas e-wallets in 9 regions to make payments in Hong Kong, enhancing tourist convenience and supporting local businesses through seamless digital transactions.
Hong Kong – On April 26, 2024, it was announced that users from 14 popular overseas e-wallets across 9 countries and regions can now make payments in Hong Kong using their home apps through Alipay+. This service, operated by Ant International, allows a combined user base of over 1.2 billion to engage in seamless and secure transactions in Hong Kong, known as “Asia’s World City.” This expansion is timely, as the influx of inbound tourists to the city continues to rise.
Alipay+ offers a smooth payment experience with transparent and competitive exchange rates. Users will find acceptance across over 90% of local merchants in Hong Kong, indicated by the Alipay+/AlipayHK logos. This integration significantly benefits local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as it allows them to accept international payments without additional investments. The supported e-wallets include MPay, Changi Pay, OCBC Digital, GCash, HelloMoney, Hipay, Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, Toss Pay, MyPB by Public Bank Berhad, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, TrueMoney, and Tinaba, covering a broad spectrum of the Asian and European markets.
Venetia Lee, CEO of AlipayHK and Greater China General Manager of Ant International, emphasized the enhancement of the tourist experience in Hong Kong through this initiative. The ability to “pay like locals” is expected to allow visitors to immerse themselves more deeply into the local culture and community life. This effort not only simplifies the payment process but also aids in the promotion of Hong Kong’s tourism sector, contributing to the local economy by improving the efficacy of merchant promotions via digital solutions.
Alipay+ has also established a collaborative customer service mechanism—Alipay+ Service Collaboration Mechanism—in Hong Kong. This initiative aims to support partners in enhancing the cross-border payment experience and improving service efficiency through operational collaboration and product innovation.
The integration of Alipay+ in Hong Kong marks a significant expansion in international mobile payments in the city and is part of a broader effort by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) to boost global visitor numbers. In 2023, Hong Kong welcomed over 34 million travellers, and the first quarter of 2024 saw an increase in visitor arrivals by 1.5 times year-on-year. These figures are indicative of the region’s appeal and the successful promotional efforts to attract more international tourists.
At the launch event, prominent figures from various sectors celebrated this milestone. Kang Sang Ho, Managing Director of Shilla Travel Retail (HK) Limited, expressed enthusiasm about offering a seamless shopping experience to customers through this strategic partnership. Similarly, leaders from global e-wallets shared positive remarks about the integration, highlighting the convenience and enhanced payment experiences for tourists from their respective countries.
The expansion of Alipay+ into Hong Kong is a significant step in Ant International’s global strategy, facilitating smoother and more engaging commerce and tourism experiences. It underscores Hong Kong’s position as a leading tourist destination and its adaptability in integrating digital payment solutions that cater to a global audience.
In summary, the launch of Alipay+ in Hong Kong through Ant International represents a landmark development in cross-border digital payments, providing vast numbers of international tourists with a more integrated and enjoyable travel experience. This initiative not only benefits consumers by simplifying transactions and enhancing cultural engagement but also supports local businesses in tapping into the growing tourist market, further stimulating the local economy and promoting Hong Kong’s global connectivity.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
