Alipay+, a mobile payment solution from Ant International, has experienced a significant increase in cross-border transactions in 2024 as more travelers rely on familiar payment apps during their trips abroad.
In the first nine months of the year, the number of travelers using Alipay+ tripled, showing that the travel industry is gearing toward digital payments and marketing technologies.
“Tourism’s importance to economic growth makes it essential for the industry to pursue innovation and new partnerships so that more people can benefit,” Douglas Feagin, president of Ant International, said in a statement. “Our Alipay+ solution has evolved to include cross-border payments, destination marketing, and digital lifestyle services, and we have seen significant adoption as more consumers embrace technology to enhance their travel experience.”
Travelers are increasingly using their home country payment apps, like Alipay+ partners GCash and Touch ‘n Go e-wallet, for purchases abroad. The service allows people to pay for things as if they were at home, which has become popular in countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. This shift has helped both large and small businesses attract tourists.
The way tourists spend money has also changed since the pandemic. While overall spending has increased, travelers are now prioritizing experiences like dining and visiting attractions over shopping. For instance, spending on food and beverage via Alipay+ increased by 80%, and spending on attractions rose by 50%. Alipay+ has also made it easier for travelers to book transportation and explore new destinations independently, with ride-hailing and taxi payments increasing by 120%.
Alipay+ also provides merchants with tools to promote their services, such as A+Rewards, which helps businesses reach tourists with special offers before their trips. This initiative has boosted the visibility of local attractions, particularly in Southeast Asia. As mobile payments continue to grow, Alipay+ aims to play a larger role in reshaping the travel experience.