Mobile and online payment platform, Alipay has united with key European mobile wallet players for the promotion of QR code payment interoperability.
The announcement revealed that Bluecode, ePassi, momo pocket, Pagaqui, Pivo, Vipps and Alipay will all utilise payment interoperability for travelers in Europe and from China, with a unified QR code.
Eric Jing, Chairman & CEO at Ant Financial commented on the news: “We feel honored to help promote a smart lifestyle and digital experiences in Europe, while continuing to connect more merchants with more Chinese tourists.
“We believe mobile payment is a universal language that can help connect people just as football does.”
Furthermore, Spanish payment company MOMO, Portugal’s Pagaqui and Austria’s Bluecode all mapped out intentions for the extension of a collaboration deeper into this Summer, all focusing on their respective home markets.
Working towards the launch, ePassi and Vipps are both set unveil QR code format in the Nordic region, the firm’s CEO Risto Virkkala added: “With over 12 years’ experience, ePassi is already a mobile payments front-runner in QR code-based payments in the Nordic and selected European countries.
“We are proud and honored to be part of this unique collaboration of European payment wallets, and to support other partners with their integration as well.”
The deal acts as a clear affirmation Alipay’s intent to strengthen its position in the European market, following its deal with British payment service provider Barclaycard, which allowed for the use of Alipay transactions in stores across the UK.
In 2004, Alipay was formed as an escrow service to address a lack of trust between online buyers and sellers in China’s budding e-commerce market. The firm has since become a leading payment and lifestyle platform.
