Alipay, the online and mobile payment platform operated by Ant Financial Services Group, announced on Wednesday that it would launch AlipayHK, a version dedicated to local-currency payments in Hong Kong.

Both iOS and Android users can download AlipayHK from the app store on May 25.

AlipayHK is the first version of the Alipay app to handle non-renminbi transactions.

"Mobile payments are gaining momentum around the world, with consumers and small businesses alike benefiting from their low cost and convenience," said Douglas Feagin, Ant Financial's President of Global Business.

A customer using a smartphone stands next to an ad for Alipay outside a store in Hong Kong, China. /VCG Photo

Starting May 25, over 2,000 brick-and-mortar stores, including Watsons, Parknshop, Fortress, Watson's Wine, Arome Bakery, Chow Tai Fook, SaSa, Giordano, as well as Ocean Park, will accept AlipayHK.

Currently, over 8,000 stores in Hong Kong accept the Chinese mainland version of the Alipay app. Ultimately, all these stores will also accept AlipayHK.

"Alipay mobile payments are simple and secure, requiring users simply to present their unique QR code (Quick Response Code) for scanning when making a purchase," Venetia Lee, Alipay's general manager of Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao said.

Signage for Alipay is displayed at a shop in Hong Kong, China. /VCG Photo

"For retailers, Alipay's interactive marketing platform makes interacting with customers and understanding their need easier than ever before," Lee said.

Both iOS and Android users can download the Alipay app on their smartphone and link their Visa or Mastercard.

Users can also top-up their Alipay accounts at convenience stores across Hong Kong and via e-banking service providers such as Standard Chartered Bank.

(Source: Xinhua)