SACOMBANK pioneers cross-border QR payments between Vietnam and China with VIETQRGlobal

VIETQRGlobal was created to serve the payment needs of travelers and residents moving, spending, and transacting across different countries. In the Vietnam–China cross-border QR-based retail payment project, participating parties have built a modern infrastructure designed to link the two sides’ digital payment ecosystems in a coordinated and secure manner that complies with international standards.

The solution is intended to provide users in both countries with a fast and convenient cross-border payment method, supported by growing demand as trade, tourism, and cooperation between Vietnam and China continue to expand. VIETQRGlobal was selected as the official name to reflect national pride and make QR payment acceptance points easier for visitors to identify.

How the service works

Beyond convenience, the approach is designed to improve security, shorten transaction processing times, and enhance automatic reconciliation among participants. SACOMBANK’s role as one of the banks at the forefront of VIETQRGlobal highlights its readiness in technology infrastructure and its long-term strategy to promote cross-border digital payments.

In the initial phase, the service will be deployed in the “Vietnam inbound” direction. Chinese tourists visiting Vietnam will be able to use the Alipay wallet to scan VIETQRGlobal codes and pay at a wide network of acceptance points, including malls, shopping districts, tourist sites, and restaurants.

This is also expected to create opportunities for retailers, small businesses, and Vietnamese enterprises by tapping into the large base of QR Alipay users from China.

Planned expansion to “Vietnam outbound”

In 2026, SACOMBANK and NAPAS are expected to complete the reverse direction, “Vietnam outbound.” At that stage, SACOMBANK PAY–linked SACOMBANK NAPAS cards will be able to scan QR codes to pay at networked merchants in China without currency exchange or carrying cash.

According to the project description, this is intended to deliver a seamless, convenient, and cost-efficient payment experience for users traveling between the two markets.

Bank statement and broader regional plans

A SACOMBANK representative said: “We will work closely with NAPAS to evaluate and perfect two-way payments with China as soon as possible. SACOMBANK is already a pioneer in implementing VIETQRGlobal successfully with Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, and will continue researching expansion to other potential markets such as Korea and Singapore, gradually refining and expanding Vietnam’s cross-border payment infrastructure.”

Expected impact

With its modern technology platform and broad network, SACOMBANK expects VIETQRGlobal to reach retailers, eateries, cafes, mini supermarkets, and personal service chains nationwide. The initiative is positioned to support wider cashless payments within the community and to promote trade and tourism between Vietnam and partner countries.