Network Int'l and Ant Int'l Partner to Drive Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion Across MEA

MoU Marks New Phase of Digital Transformation with Alipay+ Wallet Tech Solutions to Support E-wallet Growth and Expand Payment Options for Merchants.

Network International (Network), a leader in digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ant International, a global financial technology provider, to jointly explore extending innovative digital payment solutions across the MEA region. The partnership aims to drive digital transformation and financial inclusion, supporting businesses of all sizes. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Jamal Abdulla AlSuwaidi, the UAE Ambassador to Singapore, underlining the importance of this collaboration for regional business growth and digital advancement.

Digital Payment Expansion with Alipay+ Wallet Tech

As part of the partnership, Network will leverage Alipay+ Wallet Tech solutions to introduce advanced e-wallet services, enabling swift e-wallet app development and empowering customers to create super apps. Alipay+ Wallet Tech is already supporting a range of e-wallet services globally, helping millions of users manage digital transactions securely and efficiently. This move will help Network International provide tailored solutions to its growing customer base across MEA.

By introducing Alipay+ payment solutions to online platforms supported by Network, customers can experience a smooth and unified payment process. Users will be able to make payments using their preferred local e-wallets or digital payment methods on both online and offline channels via a seamless QR code payment system. Alipay+ currently connects over 30 digital payment systems globally, enhancing the interoperability of digital transactions for consumers.

Expanding Local and Global Payment Processing Through Antom

Through this collaboration, Network also plans to work with Ant International’s Antom payment platform, enhancing Antom’s payment processing capabilities with UAE-issued debit and credit cards. This development allows global merchants to accept a wider array of local payment methods, thereby better connecting with MEA consumers, particularly in the UAE. Antom’s platform will support UAE consumers using international cards, broadening the reach and acceptance of local and international payment systems.

Speaking on the new partnership, Nandan Mer, Chief Executive Officer of Network International, said: “We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Ant International, which will help broaden their reach in the Middle East and Africa and support financial inclusion efforts across the region. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to digital transformation, driving business growth in the MEA region.”

Peng Yang, Chief Executive Officer of Ant International, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with Network International in supporting regional and global merchants, especially SMEs across the UAE and MEA region. By combining our innovative technologies and digitization solutions with Network’s expertise, we aim to create more opportunities for merchants to thrive in the digital landscape.”

Building Toward a Digital Financial Future

This strategic partnership between Network and Ant International underscores the potential for collaborative efforts in driving regional digital transformation. With a shared focus on supporting regional merchants and consumers, the agreement sets the stage for significant advancements in digital commerce and financial inclusivity in the MEA region. The partnership also aligns with broader goals for economic digitization and offers a path for businesses to tap into the benefits of a digitally empowered customer base.