TENCENT(HK:00700) Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-09-17 15:09Core Viewpoint - The launch of the "Cross-Border QR Code Unified Gateway" aims to enhance the efficiency of cross-border payments and improve the payment experience for foreign users in China [2][6]. Group 1: Institutional Responses - Multiple payment institutions, including Tencent and Ant Group, have quickly responded to the People's Bank of China's announcement by implementing measures to support the new gateway [1][3]. - Tencent plans to open its WeChat Pay service to more foreign wallets, allowing them to make payments in China using QR codes [3][9]. - Ant Group's Alipay supports seven major international card brands and 31 electronic wallets from 12 countries and regions for use in China [4][5]. Group 2: Technical and Operational Benefits - The unified gateway addresses the complexities of cross-border payment integration, allowing foreign wallets to connect with multiple domestic payment institutions through a single interface [6][7]. - It reduces costs and improves efficiency by standardizing the integration process, thus enhancing the overall user experience for foreign visitors [7][10]. - The system allows foreign users to use their existing wallet apps without needing to register or switch payment methods frequently [7][8]. Group 3: Future Developments and Ecosystem - The unified gateway is expected to expand its network of participating institutions and enhance cross-border payment interoperability [11][12]. - The People's Bank of China aims to create a more open and inclusive payment ecosystem, supporting the internationalization of the RMB and facilitating Chinese financial services abroad [12]. - Institutions are encouraged to embrace an open ecosystem, enhance compliance risk management, and invest in technological innovation to improve competitive advantages [12].