Alipay partners international card networks to enhance visitor experience at the Asian Games

Alipay has partnered with international card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and Discover Global Network to launch a campaign that aims to further enhance international visitors’ mobile payment and travel experiences. This comes as the country counts down to the Asian Games, which will be held from 23 September 2023 to 8 October 2023 in Hangzhou, China.

Running from 25 August 2023 to 29 August 2023, the partnership will allow tourists to get a discount when making payments with an Alipay account. The account has to be linked to an international card of one of the four approved international card networks within the Alipay merchant network during the Asian Games.

Don't miss: DFS Group and Ant Group enhance shopping experience with Alipay+

This comes as Mastercard reports that consumer spending has shown resilience with a continued focus on experiences and travel. Globally, during the second quarter of 2023, cross-border travel was robust, reaching 154% of 2019 levels, up 6% from the previous quarter. Meanwhile, China’s inbound cross-border travel market is also improving, said Alipay in a statement.

"As travel and tourism rebound, Mastercard is delighted to work with its partners to provide enhanced digital payment solutions that address the evolving needs of international travelers and enable cardholders, worldwide, to pay like a local, ensuring peace of mind throughout their journey," said Dennis Chang, executive vice president and division president, Greater China, Mastercard.

Commenting on the partnership, Peng Yang, president of international business group, Ant Group, added: “We are excited to partner with card networks, other institutions and merchants to support the Asian Games. We look forward to strengthening this collaborative ecosystem through more cross-border payment innovations, SME empowerment and sustainability projects.” 

"By partnering with Alipay, the leading digital payment and services platform in China, we greatly enhance shopping convenience and accessibility for our valued cardholders from around the world," added Chris Winter, managing director, international markets, Asia Pacific, Discover Global Network. "Through this partnership, visitors can effortlessly explore the wonders of China, from shopping and dining to embarking on exciting explorations, while immersing themselves in the rich local culture." he said. 

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Ant Group for more information. 

Back in July, Alipay partnered with Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to allow tourists from China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and South Korea to pay with their home mobile wallets via Alipay+ when they visit Thailand. Ant Group also helped local Thai businesses better engage with tourists through digital marketing solutions. 

We are bringing Digital Marketing Asia to Hong Kong from Southeast Asia! Hear all about the latest trends in the digital space with 200+ brilliant minds at Digital Marketing Asia - Hong Kong on 26 and 27 October at The Mira Hong Kong. Uncover thought-provoking and customised strategies that help brands connect with audiences effectively.

Related articles:
DFS Group and Ant Group enhance shopping experience with Alipay+
Alipay and Thailand authorities partner up to elevate tourists' payment experience
Mastercard and Alipay team up to offer another cashless payment option in China