Mastercard enables China visitors payment option through WeChat Pay

Inbound cross-border travel to China improved to around 50% of 2019 levels. 

In time for cross-border business travel and sporting events, Mastercard revealed that travellers to China can now link their cards to WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay).

The latest development also allows Mastercard users to fully access WeChat Pay's merchant network within mainland China, offering a secure and convenient way for visitors to make local payments. 

The expanded network covers various categories like dining, transportation, shopping, and accommodation. 

Payments can be made through QR codes, payment codes, Mini Programs, and in-app payments.

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This partnership between WeChat Pay and Mastercard benefits merchants, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as they gain more opportunities to engage with travellers who now have access to one of the most widely accepted payment methods.

In the second quarter of 2023, cross-border travel remained strong, hitting 154% of 2019 levels, marking a 6% increase from the previous quarter. 

Additionally, inbound cross-border travel to the Chinese mainland improved to around 50% of 2019 levels. 

With upcoming major international sporting events like the Asian Games, the Chinese mainland is looking forward to welcoming even more visitors.