Chinese tech giants loosen borders, letting foreigners pay and create on their platforms
Chinese internet firms are beginning to let foreign users pay and post content, highlighted by PayPal’s new QR-code link with Weixin Pay and Bilibili’s launch of an international app.
On August 11, PayPal revealed a partnership that lets U.S. users settle purchases at tens of millions of Weixin Pay locations across mainland China via QR codes, removing the need for additional downloads or local bank links, according to TenPay CEO Wenhui Yang. Experts note that tourists previously found it nearly impossible to pay without WeChat Pay or Alipay, and the new service bridges that gap. Meanwhile, Bilibili announced the rollout of an international app, promising access in “more countries” and actively hiring creators and staff in Japan, the United States and Europe.
The platform joins TikTok and Xiaohongshu (RedNote) in expanding beyond China’s previously closed digital ecosystem. Industry observers link this trend to stagnant domestic consumption, prompting firms such as Moonshot AI with its Kimi K3 model and other tech players to market cost-competitive offerings to global customers. The combined efforts signal China’s internet economy is gradually integrating with the worldwide digital market.
Why it matters
Easier payment and content access lowers barriers for foreigners, expanding China’s digital market and increasing global competition.
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