Shopping in China Can Now Be Done Using QRIS Starting Today
Bank Indonesia is expanding the use of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) across borders to China. Inbound and outbound transactions between Indonesians and Chinese citizens can now be conducted via QR code scanning starting today.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo explained that the use of Chinese QR codes is currently limited to UnionPay QR, Alipay QR, and unified QR bearing the UnionPay and Alipay logos. Other Chinese QR codes, including WeChat Pay QR, are still in the development and technological adjustment phase.
“So, every time we go to China or Chinese citizens come to Indonesia, don’t use cash; just use your mobile phone and voilà, you can buy anything,” said Perry during the launch in Jakarta on Thursday, 30 April 2026.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia Wang Lutong expressed appreciation for the leadership of Bank Indonesia’s Governor and Indonesia’s achievements in the financial and digital sectors. Amid rapid global changes, the banking sector needs to adapt to innovations, artificial intelligence (AI), and digitalisation in Indonesia, including through strengthened investments in technology and human resources.
“We look forward to the official launch of QRIS (QRIS connected to Chinese QR) and will continue to expand participation and acceptance by involving more banks and payment institutions. We are very excited about the future that awaits us all,” said Wang.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Indonesian Payment System Association (ASPI) Santoso Liem views this cooperation as a significant opportunity, given that both China and Indonesia are leading players in the digital economy.
According to him, this collaboration will promote transaction convenience, especially with the high mobility of tourists between the two countries, and has the potential to strengthen future business relations through cross-border transactions.
Santoso stated that the integration of payment systems with China is progressing gradually. Although China has a national QR standard, integration among service providers still requires adjustments to enable international connectivity.
Looking ahead, he said, the cooperation will also include other payment providers in China, such as WeChat Pay. However, its implementation is still in the exploration stage as it requires technological adjustments, particularly in system interconnection and platform integration.