Alipay continues to expand its merchant network to provide better services for Chinese tourists wherever they travel. The payment platform is now accepted by more than 10 million merchants across China and by bricks-and-mortar shops in 33 countries and territories.
The platform connects Chinese tourists with merchants, airports, travel agencies and other Alipay partners, giving users access to intuitive local offers and services, and merchants the ability to target potential clients.
“With 98% of outbound Chinese tourists owning a smartphone, there is a clear opportunity for a mobile-based ecosystem to deliver a truly 21st Century travel experience,” said Carl Su, Vice President of Ant Financial, at the 2017 Global Smart Tourism Ecosystem Summit in Beijing earlier this week. “Alipay’s smart tourist service platform connects all kinds of overseas merchants with the right Chinese tourists, even before they depart. Merchants find that our digital platform lowers marketing cost and improves conversion rate, while tourists find that access to local services and products is easier than ever before.”
Alipay’s outbound service platform allows users to download merchants’ coupons before or during their trip. Over 160,000 coupons are downloaded by users every day, among which 60% are redeemed when users pay via Alipay overseas.
Based on analysis of user preferences, Alipay recommends nearby merchants and even tips on itineraries. By paying with Alipay, users gain Alipay membership points that can ultimately gain them access to anything from better exchange rates and discount rates, to VIP lounge access at the airport.
The outbound tourism service platform also allows merchants and travel agencies to keep in touch with their customers online after the trip.
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