China’s Digital Payment Behemoths Try to Improve Foreign User Experience

China’s payment platforms have been ramping up efforts to streamline their services to allow easier access for foreign visitors.

The country’s two digital payment behemoths, Alipay and WeChat Pay, have joined forces with central bank-backed NetsUnion Clearing Corp. (NUCC) (网联清算有限公司) to optimize the use of foreign bank cards and digital wallets on the Chinese mainland.

Regulators have been trying to slash barriers that foreigners face making digital payments on the mainland, as the government tries to revive inbound tourism.