Booking.com leads Asia’s cashless travel revolution

Fintech innovation is transforming how travellers pay, connecting digital wallets, local options, and global bookings into one seamless journey

Digital payments are transforming the way travellers move through Asia-Pacific, replacing cash and currency exchanges with seamless, mobile-first experiences. Fintech innovation is not only redefining convenience but also expanding financial inclusion across a diverse and rapidly evolving region.

Key takeaways

• Cashless momentum: Around 60% of Southeast Asian consumers now prefer cashless payments, reflecting a cultural shift toward speed, transparency, and choice in travel transactions.
• Regional contrasts: China leads with digital wallets driving 82% of e-commerce, while Japan and the Philippines still lean on cash, underscoring the need for flexible solutions across markets.
• Fintech acceleration: Platforms like GrabPay and ShopeePay have become everyday essentials, outpacing Western reliance on traditional credit cards.
• Booking.com’s role: Payments by Booking.com processed 59% of total gross bookings in 2024, offering travellers global access to e-wallets, BNPL, and local payment options through a single system.
• Cross-border enablement: Partnerships like Booking.com and Antom simplify international payments, reducing friction for travellers and supporting independent hotels’ cash flow and expansion.
• Inclusive innovation: As cash fades, the challenge lies in ensuring secure, accessible digital payment systems that balance innovation with inclusivity across diverse economies.

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