Alipay+, Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment solution, has announced a significant milestone, now connecting over 1.6 billion user accounts from more than 35 international e-wallets and banks.
This expansion solidifies Alipay+’s position as a leading facilitator of seamless and convenient digital payments across borders.
The platform’s continued growth is fueled by strategic partnerships with key players in the fintech industry.
Just recently, Alipay+ welcomed Kaspi.kz, a prominent digital platform in Kazakhstan, and BigPay, a major player in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, to its network. These additions significantly broaden Alipay+’s reach in Central and Southeast Asia, offering users greater flexibility and choice when making cross-border transactions.
Alipay + sees surge in travel activity in Asia
This expansion comes at a crucial time for the travel industry, which is poised for substantial growth.
A joint report by Ant International and IDC predicts a surge in travel activity in Asia, identifying Southeast Asia, Japan, and South Korea as key hotspots.
Furthermore, tourism spending is projected to increase dramatically, more than tripling by 2027. Alipay+ is positioning itself to capitalize on this anticipated boom, providing travelers with a reliable and convenient payment solution wherever they go.
Alipay + enhances GCash’s presence in Japan
A prime example of this strategy in action is the recent enhancement of GCash’s presence in Japan. Through a strategic partnership with Alipay+ and PayPay, a leading Japanese mobile payment service, GCash users can now access a vastly expanded network of merchants across Japan.
This collaboration allows Filipinos traveling or living in Japan to make cashless transactions at over 3 million businesses, ranging from large department stores to smaller, local establishments like restaurants and shops.
Previously, GCash functionality in Japan was limited to select merchants in major cities. Now, thanks to the Alipay+ and PayPay integration, GCash users can enjoy a more comprehensive payment experience, extending to izakayas, wagashi shops, guesthouses, and even anime merchandise stores, particularly in more rural areas.
This wider accessibility provides greater convenience for Filipino travelers and residents, enabling them to use GCash for everyday purchases and experiences throughout Japan.
The payment process is simple and user-friendly. GCash users simply scan the PayPay QR code displayed at participating merchants using their GCash app.
This seamless integration aims to replicate the familiar payment experience Filipinos enjoy at home, eliminating the need for cash or local currency exchange, and making transactions smoother and more efficient.
This initiative aligns with GCash’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint and cater to the growing number of Filipinos living and working overseas. GCash is currently available in 16 markets, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and various countries in the Middle East and Asia.
Filipinos residing in these countries can now easily sign up for a GCash account using their international mobile number and a valid Philippine ID, such as a passport, further demonstrating GCash’s commitment to serving its overseas user base.
Alipay + expands cross-border payment solutions in PH
In a strategic move that’s meant to further bolster digital payment transactions in the Philippines, Alipay+ has also announced a partnership with GHL Systems Philippines Inc. (GHL Philippines), a subsidiary of GHL Systems Berhad.
This collaboration will enable local businesses to accept cross-border digital payments from leading Asian mobile wallets, enhancing face-to-face and e-commerce transactions.
The expansion of Alipay+’s network and the strategic partnerships it forges, like the one with GCash, PayPay, and GHL Philippines, are not just about increasing user numbers. They represent a concerted effort to create a truly interconnected and accessible global payments ecosystem.
By bridging the gap between different mobile wallets and banking systems, Alipay+ is facilitating seamless cross-border transactions, empowering individuals and businesses to participate in the global economy with greater ease and efficiency.
As the travel industry rebounds and cross-border commerce continues to grow, platforms like Alipay+ are playing a vital role in shaping the future of digital payments.