Alipay+ global travel payments connect 1.8 billion users across 100 markets
Alipay+, the global wallet gateway by Ant International, is changing how people travel and spend. The platform now connects 1.8 billion users from 40 international payment partners across more than 100 countries and regions.
In the first half of 2025, over 6.5 million consumers used Alipay+ cross-border payments for the first time. This growth brought new opportunities for merchants worldwide. Transactions made through national standardised QR codes nearly doubled, helping small businesses benefit from increased tourist spending.
Alipay+ also introduced new services to make travel smoother. These include Alipay+ Voyager, an AI-powered travel agent that integrates with partners like Trip.com, Agoda, and Grab. Another innovation, Alipay+ GenAI Cockpit, helps digital wallets build AI-native experiences. The platform also expanded in-app tax refund options through Global Blue for a fully digital travel journey.
Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International, said mobile wallets now drive inclusive growth by linking travelers and businesses. He emphasized the role of AI and partnerships in improving both merchant and customer experiences.
Short-haul and budget travel are leading trends in 2025. Asia remains the hub of travel growth, with China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia seeing strong year-on-year gains. Intra-Asia transactions via Alipay+ grew 32 percent, showing that travelers prefer nearby destinations and local merchants.
Travelers are also exploring niche experiences. Spending in beauty, medical, and education sectors rose, with K-beauty transactions in South Korea up 115 percent. Payments for public transport and ride-hailing doubled, showing the appeal of independent, local travel.
By expanding payment access and digital tools, Alipay+ helps travelers “pay like a local” while giving small merchants global reach.
