SINGAPORE, 24 October 2025 — Singapore has emerged as the top destination globally for tourism spending growth in 2025, according to new data from Alipay+, Ant International’s global digital payment network.
Transactions made via SGQR, Singapore’s unified QR code payment system, have surged more than 1.7 times year-on-year, as more travellers opt to “travel like a local” by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
During China’s Golden Week holiday, Singapore remained a leading destination for Chinese travellers, with SGQR transactions increasing 3.5 times compared to the previous year.
“Travel plays a vital role in stimulating local economies, and mobile wallets can act as a powerful connector between travellers and businesses,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Through Alipay+, we aim to enhance the global travel ecosystem with AI-powered payment and digital solutions that drive inclusivity, connectivity, and customer-centric experiences.”
Ant International’s analysis highlights three major travel trends shaping 2025 and beyond:
- Mobile payments are becoming the norm in international travel;
- Short-haul, value-conscious trips are dominating regional tourism; and
- Rising demand for local, authentic experiences.
To meet evolving traveller expectations, Alipay+ has expanded its ecosystem of payments and digital services across more than 100 markets, serving 1.8 billion users through 40 partner wallets.
Recent updates include:
- New partners such as Bluecode (Europe), PayPay (Japan), and KBank (Thailand) are joining the network;
- Alipay+ Voyager, an AI-powered travel assistant integrating Trip.com, Agoda, and Grab;
- Alipay+ GenAI Cockpit, enabling digital wallets to build AI-native solutions; and
- Enhanced tax refund integration through Global Blue, enabling seamless digital refunds.
Inclusive Growth Through SGQR
Singapore remains among the top 10 destinations globally for Alipay+ users, with inbound travellers mainly from China, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. The country’s unified SGQR system allows visitors to make payments with their home wallets, supporting local merchants such as hawker stalls and neighbourhood retailers.
In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 6.5 million users made their first overseas payment using Alipay+, with global transactions at travel-related merchants rising by over 30 percent.
“Singapore’s position as the top market for tourism spending growth underscores our success in creating compelling visitor experiences,” said Oliver Chong, Assistant Chief Executive, International Group, Singapore Tourism Board. “Our partnership with Alipay+ enhances convenience for visitors while empowering local businesses to participate meaningfully in Singapore’s tourism growth.”
Value Travel and Local Exploration Rising
Across Asia, travellers are opting for short-haul, value-driven trips, boosting local spending. Intra-Asia travel transactions by Alipay+ partners grew 32 percent year-on-year, with Southeast Asia leading the surge. Redemptions through A+ Rewards, Alipay+’s in-app deals platform, increased 57 percent, while low-value purchases under US$10 rose 37 percent, reflecting growing support for small businesses.
Travellers are also exploring beyond traditional attractions. In Singapore, one-third of Alipay+ transactions now occur via SGQR in neighbourhood eateries and small shops. Use of mobile payments for public transport has risen tenfold, and international visitors are increasingly using their native wallet apps, including Bluecode (Europe) and Tinaba (Italy), at local merchants.
The widespread adoption of Alipay+ across Asia has also made it easier for tourists to reach lesser-known destinations such as Shikokuchūō (Japan), Jeollabuk-do (South Korea), Semporna (Malaysia), and Ayutthaya (Thailand), supporting inclusive tourism and SME development.
