Machhapuchchhre Bank Becomes First in Nepal to Accept WeChat Pay

7th August 2025, Kathmandu

In a groundbreaking development for Nepal’s financial and tourism industries, Machhapuchchhre Bank Ltd. (MBL) has announced the introduction of WeChat Pay. This move makes MBL the first bank in Nepal to offer the popular Chinese mobile payment service, a strategic decision aimed at providing a seamless payment experience for the growing number of Chinese tourists visiting the country.

Machhapuchchhre Bank WeChat Pay

The integration of WeChat Pay signifies a major leap in Nepal’s digital payment ecosystem, bridging the gap between international digital finance and local commerce.

The launch of this service is set to significantly enhance the travel experience for Chinese visitors, who are accustomed to a cashless society. With a simple QR code scan, tourists can now pay for goods and services at any merchant affiliated with Machhapuchchhre Bank, eliminating the need to carry large amounts of cash and simplifying foreign exchange processes. This initiative is not only a boon for tourism-related businesses but also a testament to MBL’s commitment to technological innovation and financial modernization.

The Power of WeChat Pay for Chinese Tourists

WeChat Pay, a digital wallet service integrated within the WeChat messaging app, is a dominant force in China’s payment landscape. For Chinese tourists, using WeChat Pay is as natural as using cash. Its introduction in Nepal means that these visitors can now enjoy the same level of convenience they have at home. This is crucial for attracting and retaining Chinese tourists, who are a vital source of foreign currency for Nepal.

Previously, Chinese tourists often faced challenges with currency exchange and the limited acceptance of international cards. The implementation of a familiar and widely-used payment system like WeChat Pay directly addresses these pain points. By enabling easy, cashless transactions, MBL is not only facilitating tourism but also ensuring that financial transactions are channeled through formal banking systems, which is vital for the national economy. This move is a strategic response to the evolving needs of modern tourism and a clear signal of Nepal’s readiness to embrace global payment trends.

A Collaborative Effort with First Pay Technology

The successful launch of the WeChat Pay service is the result of a strategic partnership with First Pay Technology Pvt. Ltd., a key player in Nepal’s fintech sector. This collaboration has allowed Machhapuchchhre Bank to leverage cutting-edge technology and integrate the cross-border payment infrastructure necessary to support WeChat Pay.

By working with a specialized fintech company, MBL has been able to quickly and efficiently deploy a complex payment solution. This partnership model is a smart way for financial institutions to innovate without having to build the entire infrastructure from scratch. It demonstrates MBL’s proactive approach to adopting new technologies and its commitment to offering a best-in-class payment experience to its merchant partners and customers. The collaboration also highlights the growing synergy between traditional banks and modern fintech companies in Nepal.

Machhapuchchhre Bank: A Leader in Digital Banking and Customer Outreach

Since its establishment, Machhapuchchhre Bank has been at the forefront of technology-driven banking services. The bank’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its extensive service network and its wide array of digital products.

As of its latest update, the bank operates a robust network that includes:

• 159 Branches
• 133 Branchless Banking Points
• 198 ATMs
• Over 1,000 POS Machines

This widespread network ensures that MBL’s digital services are accessible to customers across the country, from the high Himalayan regions to the plains of the Terai. The bank’s focus on technological advancements is not limited to international payment systems. It also offers a range of digital services, including QR payments via Fonepay and its own mobile banking app, MBL M-Smart, which provides features like utility bill payments, fund transfers, and online account opening.

Setting a New Standard for Financial Innovation

By becoming the first bank in Nepal to introduce WeChat Pay, Machhapuchchhre Bank is not just introducing a new service; it is setting a new standard for innovation in the country’s banking sector. This initiative positions MBL as a forward-thinking institution that is attuned to global market trends and committed to supporting national economic growth through strategic advancements.

The successful implementation of WeChat Pay demonstrates the bank’s capability to handle complex cross-border transactions and its dedication to modernizing Nepal’s financial infrastructure. As a pioneer in this space, MBL is paving the way for other financial institutions to follow suit, which will ultimately benefit the entire tourism sector and contribute to a more digitally advanced Nepal. This is a clear signal that Nepal’s financial sector is ready to compete on a global stage and is actively working to attract and accommodate international visitors.

For More: Machhapuchchhre Bank WeChat Pay