In today’s global market, cross-border payments are essential. UK businesses that accept China Pay can access the world’s largest e-commerce market. They can also attract millions of Chinese consumers and tourists.
The value of China’s mobile payments is set to reach ¥687.5 trillion by 2025.
- Alipay leads with more than 50% market share.
- WeChat Pay closely follows, backed by over a billion users.
- UnionPay Commerce accounted for 17.8% of the market in Q3 2024. Their Mobile QuickPass will likely grow in 2025.
Together, Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate over 90% of China’s third-party mobile payment space. This shows why offering China Pay options is no longer optional—it’s strategic. The UK government also supports Alternative Payment Methods (APMs). This ensures local businesses stay competitive in a changing world.
Who Uses China Pay?
WeChat Pay
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Over 1.2 billion users
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Popular with younger people and professionals
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Great for brands using WeChat mini-programs or social commerce
Alipay
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Over 1 billion users
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Used across all ages and industries
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Ideal for shopping, travel, and online platforms
UnionPay
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Traditional bank card users
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Strong in offline retail and B2B
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Supports “Tap to Pay” via QuickPass
Where to Use China Pay
Retail
In UK high streets, many shops now accept China Pay options. WeChat Pay and Alipay make in-store payments quick and familiar. UnionPay QuickPass helps with fast card-based transactions.
E-commerce
Alipay and WeChat Pay boost checkout conversion rates. They reduce cart abandonment for Chinese shoppers. UnionPay also supports e-commerce with card payment security.
Services
Hotels, flights, education—China Pay covers them all. Alipay and WeChat Pay simplify complex bookings. UnionPay is now expanding into service-based payments, too.
How to Integrate China Pay
Alipay & WeChat Pay
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Work with a UK Payment Service Provider (PSP)
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Submit company documents for review
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Use API tools for fast integration and testing
UnionPay QuickPass
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Contact UnionPay’s local partners
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Apply with business qualifications
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Get full technical support from the team
Integrating China Pay with GlobePay
At GlobePay, we offer our clients tailored fee rates. Our channel fee rates depend on your industry and transaction volume. We help UK businesses integrate Chinese payments with transparent pricing.
Settlement is fast and efficient. Alipay and WeChat Pay typically settle in T+3 working days. UnionPay settlements usually complete within five working days.
With GlobePay, integrating China Pay is simple and reliable. Our platform supports smooth onboarding, real-time transaction data, and full compliance support. We make it easy for your business to accept the most trusted Chinese payment methods.
