Bank Indonesia has expanded the use of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard, or QRIS, to support cross-border transactions with China.
The policy took effect on Thursday, 30 April 2026, allowing users in both countries to complete payments by scanning QR codes through their respective mobile applications.
The system enables Indonesian travellers in China and Chinese visitors in Indonesia to make transactions without relying on cash or physical cards.
It currently supports UnionPay QR, Alipay QR, and a unified QR code that displays both payment networks. Other platforms, including WeChat Pay, remain under development and are still undergoing technical adjustments.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo confirmed the implementation of the policy and outlined its intended use.
“If we go to China or Chinese citizens come to Indonesia, they can use their mobile phones to pay,” he said, as quoted by Antara.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cross-border payment connectivity. It also reflects ongoing cooperation between Indonesia and China in digital financial services.
Industry and Diplomatic Response to QRIS Expansion
The policy has received support from both industry and diplomatic representatives. Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia Wang Lutong welcomed the move and noted its relevance to the current pace of technological change.
He said Indonesia has shown progress in digital financial innovation. According to him, the banking sector must respond to global developments, including artificial intelligence and digitalisation, through investment in both technology and human resources.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Indonesian Payment Systems Association Santoso Liem highlighted the potential economic impact of the collaboration.
He said the initiative could support higher transaction volumes, particularly in sectors linked to tourism and business activity between the two countries.
The adoption of QR-based payments is expected to align with the growing mobility of travellers and business actors. It also reflects efforts to improve transaction efficiency in cross-border settings.
ShopeePay Supports QRIS Integration in China
Digital payment platform ShopeePay has also implemented the cross-border QRIS system in China. The company began rolling out the feature on the same date, 30 April 2026, in line with Bank Indonesia’s policy.
Through this integration, ShopeePay users can make payments at merchants in China that are connected to the Alipay partner network. Transactions can be completed by scanning QR codes directly through the application.
ShopeePay Indonesia President Director Eka Nilam explained the benefit of the feature for users.
“This convenience allows users to make practical transactions without the need for additional payment methods such as physical cards or cash,” she said, as quoted by Investortrust.id.
The company stated that the move supports Bank Indonesia’s efforts to expand digital payment connectivity across borders. It also aims to provide users with a more accessible payment experience when travelling abroad.
Cover: Photo by iMin Technology/Pexels
