Mastercard and Octopus expand payment options for travellers in HK

Mastercard and Octopus Cards have joined forces to enable travellers to conveniently top up their mobile Octopus cards using any Mastercard card, allowing them to “pay like a local”.

This comes as Mastercard Economics Institute’s “2024 economic outlook: balancing prices and priorities” shows that the macro picture for the year is expected to be one of modest growth. Against the backdrop of cross-border travel recovery, Mastercard's partnership with Octopus marks a pivotal development in its "pay like a local” initiative.

By leveraging Mastercard as the payment option in the Octopus app for tourists, Mastercard cardholders can top up mobile Octopus in their iPhone or Apple Watch, and better experience the city with Octopus contactless payments at over 180,000 acceptance points, covering an array of activities such as transport, dining, entertainment and shopping.

For international arrivals to Hong Kong, they can also use their mobile octopus across all MTR routes including Airport Express, light rail, MTR bus and express travel across 2,400 MTR gates, so visitors no longer need to purchase and top up a physical card or activate a device. 

Moreover, a top-up rebate programme is now available for inbound travelers from the Chinese mainland. From 1 February 2024 to 31 May 2024, travellers from the Chinese mainland who link their Mastercard cards to the Octopus app for tourists can enjoy cashback when they top up the card for the first time.

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Dennis Chang, executive vice president and division president, Greater China, Mastercard, said: “As a result of this partnership, Mastercard cardholders traveling to Hong Kong can more easily enjoy one of the most iconic local elements of living in Hong Kong, the Octopus.”

“This collaboration with Octopus also brings local businesses, especially SMEs, greater opportunities to engage with inbound travellers, underscoring Mastercard’s dedication to connecting buyers and sellers across the globe. To capture the burgeoning opportunities returning to the region, Mastercard partners with all stakeholders - large and small, public or private - to facilitate business and enhance experiences,” Chang added. 

Tim Ying, chief executive officer, Octopus, said: “With global travel on track to return to its pre-pandemic high, Octopus welcomes more travelers coming back to Hong Kong. With our roots deep in this dynamic city, we are delighted to offer the same simple, fast and secure payment experience HongKongers are so familiar with to visitors.” 

“As a top global destination city, Hong Kong has much to offer visitors. Octopus works closely with our extensive base of merchants to provide travelers with more digital payment options. Mastercard accountholders can also top-up their mobile Octopus with ease, ensuring a smooth overall travel experience. This partnership is a win-win for travellers, merchants, and communities as inbound spending boosts the local economy,” said Rita Li, Sales and Marketing Director of Octopus.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Mastercard for more information.

Back in September last year, Mastercard partnered with China CITIC Bank International (CNCBI) to enhance customers’ experiences with the launch of the CNCBI Jewel World Elite Mastercard card.

The new card caters specifically for the high-net-worth (HNW) segment in the market and provides affluent customers with an array of exclusive benefits and extraordinary experiences, redefining the benchmark for premium credit card service.

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