Singapore has emerged as the top global destination for tourism spending growth in 2025, driven by a surge in digital payments, according to Alipay+, Ant International’s global wallet gateway. The use of SGQR, Singapore’s unified payment QR code, has increased by more than 1.7 times year-on-year, now accounting for one-third of all cross-border transactions. This trend is significantly benefiting local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as inbound tourism rises.
During the recent Golden Week holiday, Chinese travellers flocked to Singapore, leading to a 3.5-fold increase in SGQR transactions compared to the previous year. Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International, stated, “Travel has a significant impact on local economies, and we believe that mobile wallets can be a catalyst for growth, connecting travellers and businesses in more ways than ever.”
Alipay+ has identified key trends shaping tourism, including a preference for short-haul, value-conscious travel and a demand for authentic local experiences. To meet these needs, Alipay+ has expanded its ecosystem, now supporting over 100 markets and 1.8 billion users through 40 international payment partners.
The Singapore Tourism Board has collaborated with Alipay+ to enhance the visitor experience, promoting seamless payment options and supporting local businesses. Oliver Chong, Assistant Chief Executive of the International Group, remarked on Singapore’s success in driving tourism growth through innovative products and experiences.
As mobile payments become the norm, the expansion of Alipay+ is set to further empower global merchants and the tourism industry, fostering inclusive growth and connectivity.
