SPDB gears up for CIIE with range of payment solutions for expats

Monica, a Salvadoran student studying at Shanghai University, found it easy to adapt to life in China thanks to the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank’s E Money Card.

Designed specifically for foreign tourists and short-term residents, the card gives her easy access to China’s vast mobile payment ecosystem, allowing her to shop, dine and explore tourist attractions without the fuss.

The card, available at Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao airports, allows users like Monica to connect their accounts to local payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, making their experience in China’s cashless society more convenient and accessible. The E Money Card is part of SPDB’s efforts to improve financial services for international travelers.

Recognizing Shanghai’s role as a major entry point for travelers from around the world, SPDB has not only introduced an e-money card, but also expanded foreign currency exchange capabilities.

There are currently 167 exchange offices throughout the city, as well as a further 62 strategically located machines at airports, transport hubs and major hotels. These programs aim to improve foreign visitors’ access to China’s payment networks, ensuring a smooth transition to life in Shanghai.

SPDB provides dedicated service centers and bilingual assistance to international travelers in popular tourist and business destinations and at airports. It offers “change wallets” and adapted lower denomination ATMs to facilitate cash transactions for travelers in popular tourist areas. Monica’s experience in Shanghai demonstrates SPDB’s commitment to providing a welcoming and convenient experience for visitors, including practical solutions to help newcomers navigate the city’s financial landscape.

The bank is setting a new standard for international financial services through initiatives such as the e-money card and enhanced foreign currency conversion support, in line with the China International Import Expo (CIIE)’s goal of promoting global connectivity.

Ahead of CIIE, SPDB is reinforcing its commitment to creating a welcoming and accessible environment for international visitors through innovative and comprehensive financial services.

Shanghai’s main entry points, where the SPDB has established dedicated “foreigner one-stop service centers” at Pudong and Hongqiao airports, demonstrate a key part of this commitment.

These centers offer a variety of services designed to help foreign travelers overcome payment and communication challenges in China.

SPDB has worked with local authorities to expand these services to include everything from payment and currency exchange assistance to device rentals and travel information.