Tan Kin Lian - Perspectives Tips for a foreigner on using Ali Pay in China
Before travelling to China, I researched on how a visitor can use Ali Pay and Wechat Pay. I had some problems with verifying my accounts and adding my credit cards (issued by DBS) and managed to overcome them.

If a credit card is declined, for an unknown reason, I tried another card. I finally managed to get a card accepted.

I tried using Ali Pay in Singapore to check that it works, but it was barred (probably by MAS). I used it in Johor and it worked.

I used Ali Pay actively in Xinjiang and became familiar with the app. I learned by doing. On some occasions, I had unexpected problems, for example connection issues, but the vendor was able to help.

I used data roaming on my Malaysian SIM card and it provided good coverage and is cheaper than my Singapore SIM card.

I asked the tour guide to take my RMB notes and transfer the money into my Ali Pay wallet. This transfer can only be made with a China bank account, which most China residents have.
If I do not have money in the wallet, the payment will be converted from RMB to SGD and charged against my credit card. I do not know the exchange rate used by Ali Pay. As the amount is small, I did not bother to find out.

I became the expert in cashless payment in my travel group. I acquired this status because I learned by trying and was able to overcome many obstacles.
I referred to guides and videos at the initial stage, and ignored those that are outdated or poorly written. Many are.

I helped some friends to set up their Ali Pay app. Some of them asked me on matters that are unnecessary and unfamiliar to me. I told them to ignore the unfamiliar issues or imaginary problems.
I am now quite confident about paying with Ali Pay in China. I may encounter new obstacles but I should be able to overcome them.

Most retail outlets accept Ali Pay and WeChat Pay. I chose Ali Pay. I hardly need to use WeChat Pay.

Tan Kin Lian

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