Fonepay, Nepal’s leading Payment System Operator (PSO), has entered into a landmark partnership with Alipay+, marking a historic milestone in the country’s journey toward seamless digital transformation and cross-border commerce. This collaboration enables Fonepay’s interoperable QR network to accept cross-border payments, offering international travelers a secure and convenient digital payment option throughout Nepal.
The launch of this initiative was commemorated with a formal event in Kathmandu, which brought together key representatives from Nepal Rastra Bank, Alipay+ delegates, Nepal Tourism Board, banking and financial institutions, tour operators, guides, prominent media houses, and business communities. The event underscored the importance of this integration in advancing Nepal’s digital economy and enhancing its position as a travel and trade hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
Seamless Digital Payments for International Travelers
With the integration of Alipay+ into the Fonepay network, travelers from over 11 countries—including China, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Germany, and Italy—can now make QR-based payments in Nepal using their familiar home e-wallets, such as Alipay, KakaoPay, GCash, Touch ’n Go, AlipayHK, TrueMoney, and Tinaba. The service is already accepted at more than 1.7 million Fonepay QR-enabled merchants nationwide.
This seamless integration eliminates the need for international visitors to carry cash or search for currency exchange services, thereby enhancing their travel experience. For merchants, the adoption of Alipay+ opens access to a broader consumer base, increasing revenue opportunities while reducing transactional complexities.
Leadership Speaks on Economic and Cultural Impact
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Edward Yue, General Manager for SEA, South Asia, and ANZ at Ant International, expressed pride in the collaboration, saying, “We’re very proud to celebrate this landmark moment to support the advancement of Nepal’s digital payments and travel ecosystem. Alipay+ builds on the growing digital infrastructure in Nepal, and we can jointly transform payments into a catalyst for economic opportunity, cultural resonance, and tourism prosperity, benefitting both local merchants and global consumers.”
Mr. Diwas Kumar, CEO of Fonepay, highlighted the broader implications of the partnership: “The integration of Alipay+ with the Fonepay Network is a major step toward global interoperability and financial inclusion. This partnership not only opens doors for international travelers in Nepal but also empowers our merchants to access a broader consumer base without added complexity.”
Strengthening Tourism, Trade, and Economic Growth
The collaboration goes beyond simple financial transactions; it reinforces cultural and economic ties between Nepal and the Asia-Pacific region. As tourism and trade continue to grow, the acceptance of Alipay+ in Nepal is expected to enhance visitor experiences, boost merchant revenues, and strengthen cross-border connectivity.
Tourism, a critical pillar of Nepal’s economy, stands to benefit significantly. By enabling secure cross-border payments, this initiative supports the ongoing recovery of the tourism sector post-pandemic. Additionally, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gain access to modern digital payment tools, improving operational efficiency and promoting business growth.
Driving Financial Inclusion and Digital Transformation
By integrating international payment systems into its network, Fonepay strengthens financial inclusion and digital literacy across Nepal. Local merchants can now cater to global consumers without the need for specialized infrastructure, while travelers enjoy the convenience of familiar digital wallets during their stay.
This step further positions Nepal as a hub for travel, trade, and cultural exchange in the region. It reflects the country’s commitment to modernizing its payment ecosystem, encouraging digital adoption, and creating a resilient, future-ready economy.
About Fonepay
Fonepay is a Payment System Operator facilitating inter-bank person-to-person (P2P) and person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions through its interoperable network and mobile platforms. Regulated by Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), Fonepay was the first mobile payment network licensed by NRB as a Payment System Operator, pioneering Nepal’s mobile and digital payments revolution.
About Alipay+
Ant International’s Alipay+ is a unified wallet gateway providing cross-border payment and digitization services that connect global merchants with consumers. Through Alipay+, travelers can enjoy seamless payments, a wide selection of deals, and the convenience of using their preferred mobile wallet abroad. Small and medium-sized businesses benefit from Alipay+ digital tools, which enhance efficiency and enable omni-channel growth.
The Fonepay-Alipay+ partnership represents a milestone in Nepal’s digital payment journey. By bridging local merchants with global consumers, the collaboration strengthens financial inclusion, supports tourism recovery, and promotes cross-border trade. As Nepal continues to embrace digital transformation, such initiatives highlight the country’s readiness to participate in the global economy, benefiting both its citizens and international visitors alike.
