The Maldives is making a big splash for Chinese tourists with the introduction of WeixinPay, a popular mobile payment option. A three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Visit Maldives and WeixinPay during ITB China 2024 paves the way for wider acceptance of the payment method across the island nation.
The MoU was signed by Zihuny Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of MMPRC, and Mr. Etienne Ng, WeixinPay’s Country Manager for Singapore, and Regional Director for Southeast Asia. This collaboration underscores the Maldives’ commitment to accommodating the preferences of its rapidly growing Chinese tourist demographic. Notably, Visit Maldives serves as the Official Destination Partner for this year’s edition of ITB China, emphasizing the importance of the Chinese market.
“China is a key source of tourists for the Maldives, and we greatly value the experience of Chinese visitors,” said Zihuny Rasheed, Deputy Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC). “This initiative ensures a convenient payment experience for Chinese visitors, offering them a familiar and preferred option.”
The convenience factor was echoed by Maldives’ Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal.
“We’re excited to introduce WeixinPay for Chinese visitors, which is another step in establishing the Maldives as their top destination. Now, it’s easier than ever for Chinese travelers to enjoy their stay, hassle-free. We look forward to further enhancing their experience,” he wrote.
Currently, WeixinPay is undergoing a pilot program at key locations, including the airport duty-free store and popular restaurants like Sala Thai and City Garden. The program also encompasses a wide range of hotels and resorts, from JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La to luxurious private islands like Cheval Blanc Randheli. This widespread adoption is backed by the Bank of Maldives and local merchants, with the goal of reaching 8,000 merchants accepting WeixinPay nationwide.
“WeixinPay is committed to offering safe and convenient payment solutions for our users,” said Etienne Ng, WeixinPay’s Country Manager for Singapore and Regional Director for Southeast Asia. “The visa exemption policy has spurred travel from China to the Maldives, and our collaboration with Visit Maldives aims to replicate the seamless payment experience they enjoy at home.”
The MoU comes on the heels of a visa exemption agreement between the Maldives and China, implemented in February 2023. This visa-free access has positioned the Maldives as a top overseas destination for Chinese tourists, particularly during peak travel periods. With over 1.8 million tourists visiting the Maldives in 2023, a record high, China has emerged as the leading source market. As of May 11, 2024, Chinese tourist arrivals have already reached 91,073, further solidifying their importance to the Maldives’ tourism industry.
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