Ant Group and Mastercard have launched a program to boost tourism and support local businesses in Shanghai, China.
Partnering with 12 of Alipay+’s overseas payment partners and other major international card organizations, they introduced the International Consumer Friendly Zones program to stimulate regional economic growth, tnglobal reported.
The initiative, supported by local authorities, covers over 20 shopping areas, tourist attractions, both of Shanghai’s international airports, high-speed railway stations, and 25,000 taxis.
Key participants include renowned brands and sites like the Bund, Nanjing Road, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
Fu Lu, Director of Cross-border Business in Greater China at Ant Group, said: “The introduction of the International Consumer Friendly Zones in Shanghai signifies a major advancement in our efforts to enrich the inbound tourism experience and bolster local business, especially considering the city’s critical role in China’s global interactions.”
Ant Group provides two digital payment options for overseas visitors in China. Travelers can link major international bank cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover, and Diners Club International to the Alipay app.
This allows access to local services without needing a local bank account or phone number.
Additionally, Alipay+ facilitates payments through local e-wallets across China, supporting 12 e-wallets and payment apps in Asia.
These digital payment alternatives have reportedly increased spending by international visitors.
Between January and April, spending via these options in Shanghai surged 13 times compared to the previous year.
Ant Group also plans to integrate more card organizations and overseas digital wallets into the program.
New joint user campaigns will be launched to further enhance the payment experience for international travelers.
Mastercard highlighted the program’s importance in providing payment options for tourists, facilitating their spending, and contributing to a more inclusive payment ecosystem.
With improved digital payment solutions and a focus on convenience, the International Consumer Friendly Zones program aims to drive inbound tourism and support local businesses in one of China’s most dynamic cities.
This initiative marks a significant step in making Shanghai more accessible and enjoyable for international visitors.