China Travel Soars: 77% Up Outbound, 700% Up Inbound via Alipay
Alipay, a leading digital payment platform in China, witnessed a significant surge in both outbound and inbound tourism spending during the 2024 Labor Day holiday. China Travel Alipay Travel
This trend reflects China’s growing travel enthusiasm and the convenience offered by mobile payment solutions.
Surge in Outbound Transactions
Alipay users traveling abroad during the first two days of the holiday period saw a remarkable 77% increase in transactions compared to the same period in 2023. Overall spending also rose by a healthy 10% year-on-year. This growth can be attributed in part to Alipay’s collaboration with global merchants to offer attractive deals for Chinese tourists.
Alipay+ Fosters Seamless Travel Experiences
Alipay+ acts as a bridge, connecting Chinese travelers with over 8 million merchants across more than 70 countries and regions. This eliminates the need for cash and simplifies currency exchange, allowing travelers to pay for various services – shopping, dining, and entertainment – with ease through their familiar Alipay app.
Short-Haul Destinations Remain Popular
Southeast Asia continues to be a magnet for Chinese tourists, with a 52% year-on-year increase in spending via Alipay. Thailand emerged as the top destination in the region, while Malaysia saw the most remarkable growth – a staggering 171% year-on-year surge.
Beyond the Horizon: Long-Haul Travel Gains Traction
The extended Labor Day weekend also encouraged Chinese travelers to venture further afield. North America, Europe, and Australia saw increasing popularity among Alipay users seeking longer and more adventurous trips.
Top Destinations for Chinese Travelers
Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Macao SAR, Korea, the United States, and Thailand emerged as the most popular destinations for Chinese tourists based on Alipay usage. Notably, Japan’s appeal has grown significantly due to the yen’s depreciation, making it a budget-friendly option. Spending in Japan through Alipay witnessed a staggering 164% year-on-year increase.
Sustainable Travel on the Rise
Environmental consciousness is becoming a key factor for Chinese travelers. Alipay is actively adding greener options like ride-hailing and public transport to its platform. For instance, the number of public transport transactions using Alipay in Hong Kong soared by 63% year-on-year.
Inbound Spending on Alipay Skyrockets
International travelers visiting mainland China during the Labor Day holiday also embraced Alipay. Spending via international card-enabled Alipay accounts jumped by a staggering 700% year-on-year. Notably, the number of visitors from the 15 countries benefiting from China’s visa-free policy updates (implemented in mid-2023) using Alipay for payments increased by more than four times compared to the previous year.
Enhanced Experiences for International Visitors
Huangshan Tourism Group collaborated with Alipay to launch the “International Visitor Friendly Scenic Spot” initiative. This program allows global travelers visiting Huangshan to enjoy convenient payment options (card, mobile payment, and cash) and access special offers like digital red packets for shopping discounts and travel guides in 16 languages.
Alipay+ Empowers International E-Wallets in China
Alipay+ facilitates seamless payments across China for international visitors using their home e-wallets. Since September 2023, Alipay+ has partnered with 12 leading e-wallets and payment apps from Asia, enabling users to pay at Alipay’s vast network of over 80 million merchants in China.
About Alipay China Travel Alipay Travel
Alipay has transformed from a trusted payment solution into a comprehensive platform connecting businesses, consumers, and service providers. It empowers partners to offer convenient payment options and leverage Alipay’s features like mini-programs, lifestyle accounts, and more to reach and engage Chinese customers effectively.
About Alipay+ China Travel Alipay Travel
Alipay+ is a suite of cross-border mobile payment and digitalization technologies that bridges the gap between global merchants and international consumers. It offers travelers a seamless payment experience using their preferred methods while enabling businesses to attract and cater to Chinese tourists.
