Armenian digital payment platform Idram recently partnered with Ant International’s global wallet gateway Alipay+.
The new partnership makes cross-border QR payments possible for global consumers in Armenia, the first of its kind within the Caucasus enabling Alipay+ acceptance.
This arrangement is founded on Indram’s digital infrastructure and connects global travellers with local businesses to boost the Armenian tourism economy whilst scaling local enterprises with Alipay+ solutions.
Idram chief executive Arsene Kdenian said: “This partnership is a testament to Idram’s commitment to innovation and cross-border collaboration. By opening our QR infrastructure to Alipay+, we are not only embracing the future of international payments, but also creating a welcoming and convenient experience for millions of global users engaging with Armenian merchants.”
Alipay+’s general manager for EMEA Pietro Candela likewise declared: “We’re delighted to join hands with Idram to enable the launch of Alipay+ in Armenia, enhancing the travel experience for international travellers from around the world. With Alipay+, Armenian businesses of all sizes can benefit from inclusive digitalisation which helps unlock the economic benefits of global tourism for this popular travel destination.”
Next steps
With this integration, Alipay+ users will now be able to seamlessly scan Idram QR codes to make cross-border payments at thousands of Armenian businesses using their preferred digital wallet, while also gaining access to local offers and loyalty programs.
Over the coming months, over 85 percent of Armenian retail and hospitality businesses, including top supermarkets and popular tourist merchants, will accept cross-border payment from Alipay+ partner banking apps and digital wallets.
Once the implementation is complete, 25,000 merchant locations across Armenia will become Alipay+ enabled through Idram’s merchant network.
Brand visibility will be reinforced through new Alipay+ POS materials to guide international users toward QR-friendly merchants.
Kdenian added that, within the framework of the partnership, his company will continue to work with Alipay+ towards opening up opportunities for Idram wallet users to pay in the Alipay+ merchant ecosystem globally.
Alipay+ currently serves 1.7 billion user accounts under 36 mobile payment partners, connecting them to 100 million merchants across 70 markets worldwide.
Likewise, this collaboration positions Armenia within a powerful global digital payment ecosystem, connecting local businesses with international travellers and helping drive inclusive growth for businesses across borders.
