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GlossaryWWeChat Pay

WeChat Pay

A dominant mobile payment and digital wallet service integrated into the WeChat app, facilitating seamless transactions in China’s digital economy.

What is WeChat Pay?

WeChat Pay, launched by Tencent in 2013, enables users to make mobile payments, transfer funds, and complete online transactions directly through the WeChat messaging platform, supporting QR code scans and in-app purchases. As of 2025, it holds approximately 47% of China’s mobile payment market share, processing trillions in transactions annually, and is widely used for everyday payments like utilities, shopping, and transportation. Its integration with social features allows for red envelope money transfers during festivals, enhancing user engagement.

In the context of digital assets, WeChat Pay has adapted to support e-CNY transactions, allowing users to link digital yuan wallets for CBDC payments, which promotes interoperability between traditional fintech and central bank digital currencies. By 2025, it serves over 1 billion active users, with expanded cross-border capabilities for tourists and expatriates via simplified registration for foreign bank cards.

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