Himalayan Bank Partners with UnionPay to Launch Historic RMB Card

Himalayan Bank Limited (HBL) has achieved a significant milestone in the domestic banking sector by becoming the first bank in Nepal to introduce the UnionPay RMB Card, launched in strategic collaboration with UnionPay International. Specifically engineered to streamline cross-border financial transactions, the card aims to make travel and commerce in China both highly cost-effective and convenient for Nepali citizens. Cardholders can execute direct payments in Chinese Yuan (CNY) utilizing automated teller machines (ATMs), point-of-sale (POS) terminals, QR codes, and online e-commerce portals. Tailored to support the financial needs of students, business professionals, and tourists, the card can be pre-loaded up to the spending thresholds authorized by Nepal Rastra Bank, offering seamless integration with dominant Chinese digital payment ecosystems including Alipay+, WeChat Pay, and Nihao China. The innovative service was formally inaugurated during a special launch event at the Marriott Hotel in Kathmandu by HBL Chief Executive Officer Ashoke SJB Rana and Zhuang Bei.