WeChat Pay to accept global cards

Tencent (0700) will allow global card payment organizations such as Visa to enter WeChat Pay as early as next month, enabling overseas users to access the mobile payment tool without holding a card issued by Chinese banks.

The tech giant is working to further enhance the mobile payment experience of overseas users in the country, under the guidance and support of some authorities, said Tencent Financial Technology vice president Royal Chen.

Chen said the expansion matches the increasing interaction between China and overseas markets. After the border reopening in January, more and more international events will be held in mainland China.

The opening will allow the holders of overseas cards to pay in various online and offline scenarios, including for shopping, catering, hotel and transportation. WeChat Pay, the leading online payment tool in mainland China, was mainly accessible to users who have yuan in their accounts or link their accounts with cards issued by Chinese banks.