Sacombank promotes cashless payment solutions for green transportation in HCMC

Representatives of the parties emphasized that this payment method is convenient, flexible, and modern, meeting the mobility needs of both residents and visitors using public transportation in HCMC. Similar models have been successfully implemented in countries such as the UK, Singapore, Australia, and the USA.

Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien) offers one month of free rides starting from 22/12/2024.

Open-loop and green transportation

Globally, two major public transportation fare collection systems exist: Closed-loop and Open-loop. While Closed-loop systems, which require cash or designated transit cards, have long been used in Vietnam for buses, electric bikes, and metro systems, they pose limitations that hinder public adoption. 

Since COVID-19, many countries have shifted toward Open-loop fare systems. For instance, Thailand recently adopted Open-loop payment for Bangkok's metro system. With automated ticket payment, passengers can use existing tools like credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, or digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay to pay for trips with a single tap or by scanning QR codes. 

This eliminates the need for manual ticketing systems, creating a seamless, fast, and secure payment network. It also modernizes passenger experiences, promotes green transportation, and supports sustainable environmental goals, especially for smartphone-savvy office workers and young people.

Sacombank leads the way in providing technical infrastructure for green transportation payments

Recognizing the significant advantages of Open-loop technology, Sacombank partnered with HURC1 and Mastercard to implement this payment system for the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line 1. Customers can tap contactless payment cards from any bank or organization, including Mastercard, Visa, JCB, UnionPay, American Express, and Napas, to pay for rides.

Seamless, cashless metro ticket payment using bank cards.

Sacombank is also collaborating with HCMC's Public Transport Management Center to expand Open-loop payment systems to buses, water buses, and electric buggies, expected to launch in early 2025. This will provide customers with seamless experiences across all public transportation options in the city. 

“HURC1 has worked closely with Mastercard, Sacombank, and other partners to successfully implement the automated ticket payment system, offering convenience, speed, and security for public transit passengers in HCMC,” said a representative from HURC1. They further highlighted the importance of optimizing ticket purchasing and payment processes, particularly with an expected initial daily ridership of 40,000 for the metro. 

Mastercard’s Asia-Pacific representative noted that the Open-loop electronic payment system is a breakthrough in enhancing public transportation booking and payment experiences. “Our goal with Sacombank and other partners is to provide safe, satisfying, and seamless experiences for users. This system sets a model for future transportation projects in Vietnam and the region,” they added. 

A Sacombank representative emphasized, “This collaboration not only benefits Ho Chi Minh City residents but also marks a significant milestone in advancing high-tech solutions and elevating Vietnam’s public transportation infrastructure to regional and international standards. Sacombank is committed to deploying modern payment solutions that contribute to a sustainable, comprehensive, and environmentally friendly urban transit ecosystem, improving quality of life for citizens.” 

For the efforts in providing payment solutions for public transportation projects, Sacombank was recently recognized as the Technical Enabler of the Year (2024) at Mastercard’s annual Customer Conference in Hanoi.

Sacombank launches Metro Pass card 

To celebrate the opening of the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line 1, a milestone for HCMC, Sacombank has introduced the Sacombank Mastercard Metro Pass. This card allows users to tap for cashless metro payments and enjoy other features such as cash withdrawals, transfers, and retail transactions. 

Customers can conveniently open a virtual Sacombank Mastercard Metro Pass via the Sacombank Pay app and add it directly to Apple Pay or Samsung Pay for easy transactions.

Conveniently issue a virtual Sacombank Mastercard Metro Pass via Sacombank Pay.

Additionally, Sacombank will set up booths at 14 metro stations to assist with free card issuance. Customers opening the Sacombank Mastercard Metro Pass at transaction points, online via Sacombank Pay, or the Metro app will receive a VND 50,000 bonus.