Laos and China Launch Cross-Border Digital Payment Link

Laos and China have officially launched a cross-border digital payment link that allows Chinese tourists to pay Lao businesses using China’s digital yuan, known as e-CNY. This initiative, announced on September 18, 2026, during the China-ASEAN Financial Cooperation and Development Conference in Guangxi, China, aims to enhance financial cooperation and streamline transactions between the two countries.

The new system connects e-CNY with Laos' domestic QR payment network, enabling Chinese visitors to make payments by simply scanning a participating Lao merchant's QR code. This eliminates the need for cash exchanges into Lao kip, offering a more convenient payment method for travelers. The Lao merchant receives the payment through the Lao payment system, ensuring a smooth transaction process.

“The connection aims to streamline payments between the two countries and strengthen financial cooperation, trade, tourism and investment.”Bank of the Lao PDR

According to the Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL), the initial phase of this payment system is supported by 17 payment service providers linked to the Lao National Payment Network (LAPNet), which includes various Lao banks and payment platforms. However, not all businesses in Laos will accept e-CNY, as participation depends on the merchant's connection to the network.

In addition to the QR payment system for tourists, the two countries are also testing a separate system called the Cross-border e-CNY Transfer System (CBETS), which is designed for larger transactions between businesses and financial institutions. This system aims to simplify traditional cross-border transfer procedures while enhancing transaction tracking and transparency, according to the BOL.

“The importance of applying AI to strengthen financial cooperation and improve cross-border payment systems was emphasized.”Soulysak Thamnuvong, Deputy Governor, Bank of the Lao PDR

Laos has been actively expanding its cross-border digital payment capabilities, previously establishing QR payment links with neighboring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The addition of China as a major market is expected to further boost Laos' growing digital payment network.

The launch of this payment link builds on previous cooperation between Laos and China, including a test QR payment transaction completed by the Bank of China Vientiane branch in late 2026. As Laos continues to enhance its digital payment infrastructure, this new connection is anticipated to facilitate trade, tourism, and investment between the two nations.