In China, mobile payments dominate among international tourists

01-07-24

Tourism in China is experiencing a resurgence as the country expands its visa-free policy and resumes international flights. A recent study by the Silk Road Research Institute of Beijing Foreign Studies University reveals that the vast majority of international tourists are embracing mobile payments during their travels in China.

The survey, conducted in June 2024, involved over 700 international travelers from 103 countries, with more than half visiting China for the first time. The findings show that 98% of these tourists would recommend China to their friends.

The data highlights that international visitors to China often travel with family, friends, or alone, with only about 10% traveling in groups. A significant trend noted in the survey is the high adoption of local mobile payment methods, such as Alipay, by international tourists. An impressive 84% of those surveyed reported using at least one type of mobile payment in China.

The younger generation of travelers, particularly those born after 2000, showed an even higher usage rate, with 90% utilizing mobile payments. Among those born after 1970, 1980, and 1990, over 80% reported using mobile payments during their stay.

Alipay emerged as a preferred choice, with 97% of users recommending it to their friends. Alipay facilitates convenient payment and travel services, allowing international visitors to link their international credit or debit cards and pay seamlessly across China. This includes transactions at restaurants, cafes, tourist attractions, shopping malls, and street stalls.

Beyond payment services, Alipay also offers digital travel services, such as online translation, ride-hailing, hotel reservations, and ticket purchases for tourist sites. The app supports translations between 16 languages, enhancing the travel experience for international visitors.

The People's Bank of China has introduced policies to enhance the payment experience for international tourists, leading to 86% of surveyed travelers noting that payments have become easier compared to their previous trips to China.