SACOMBANK pioneers cross-border QR payment connectivity between Vietnam and China

VIETQRGlobal was developed to meet the growing demand for seamless payments by travelers, residents, and businesses moving between countries. In this cross-border retail payment linkage project between Vietnam and China, the parties have worked together to build modern infrastructure and gradually integrate the digital payment ecosystems of both nations in a synchronized, secure, and internationally compliant manner. The solution provides users in both countries with a fast and convenient cross-border payment method, effectively responding to the rising demand driven by expanding trade, tourism, and cooperation between Vietnam and China.

VIETQRGlobal was chosen as the official name, reflecting national pride while remaining easily recognizable for international visitors at QR-enabled payment points. In addition to convenience, the solution enhances transaction security, shortens processing time, and improves automatic reconciliation capabilities among participating parties.

SACOMBANK’s role as one of the pioneering banks in implementing VIETQRGlobal underscores its technological readiness and long-term commitment to advancing cross-border digital payments.

In the initial phase, the service is being launched in the “Vietnam inbound” direction. Chinese tourists visiting Vietnam can now enjoy a “just like home” experience by using their Alipay wallet to scan VIETQRGlobal codes and make payments at a wide network of acceptance points, including shopping malls, retail stores, tourist attractions, and restaurants. This also creates significant business opportunities for millions of Vietnamese retailers, small businesses, and enterprises by tapping into the large base of Alipay QR users from China.

In 2026, SACOMBANK and NAPAS will complete the reverse linkage – “Vietnam outbound”. Once implemented, SACOMBANK NAPAS cardholders will be able to link their cards to the SACOMBANK PAY app and scan QR codes to make payments at participating merchants in China, without the need to exchange foreign currency or carry cash. This will deliver a seamless, convenient, and cost-effective payment experience.

A representative from SACOMBANK stated: “We will continue to work closely with NAPAS to evaluate and complete the two-way payment connectivity with China at the earliest opportunity. Currently, SACOMBANK is a pioneer in successfully implementing VIETQRGlobal with Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. We are also actively exploring expansion into other promising markets such as South Korea and Singapore, with the aim of further enhancing and expanding Vietnam’s cross-border payment infrastructure.”

With its modern technology platform and extensive network, SACOMBANK expects VIETQRGlobal to be rapidly adopted at retail stores, restaurants, cafés, mini-supermarkets, and personal service chains nationwide. This will help promote cashless payment habits within the community while boosting trade and tourism between Vietnam and its partner countries.