UnionPay International and Bank of China Launch SplendorPlus Card in Germany: A New Era in Cross-Border Payments
UnionPay International Partners with Bank of China to Launch the SplendorPlus Debit Card in Germany
On September 24, 2025, UnionPay International and the Bank of China Frankfurt Branch proudly unveiled the SplendorPlus Debit Card, marking the brand's inaugural foray into the European market. This innovative debit card is tailored specifically for local residents wishing to travel to China, providing a seamless, cost-effective solution for cross-border payments, ultimately enhancing the travel experience for its users.
The SplendorPlus Card combines the reputable banking services of Bank of China with the vast global network of UnionPay, offering its customers a versatile payment tool that caters to both domestic and international spending. One of the most appealing features for cardholders is the 1% cashback on all transactions conducted through the UnionPay network in Mainland China, making it a lucrative option for frequent travelers.
In Germany, UnionPay has ensured accessibility by integrating its services into popular tourist areas, including major airports, shopping areas, and outlet centers. Notable retailers, including department stores, duty-free shops, restaurants, and hotels, now accept payments via UnionPay, reflecting the growing acceptance of this payment method. Thanks to a strategic collaboration with Epay, UnionPay QR code payments are also available at well-known retail chains such as Müller and Galeria, as well as at Heinemann duty-free shops.
The launch of the SplendorPlus Card is part of UnionPay's broader 'Project Excellence,' aimed at enhancing the payment experience for users. The card is remarkably accepted across China, used at over 1.31 million merchants spanning transportation, dining, shopping, and entertainment, ensuring ample opportunities for cardholders to utilize their cards.
UnionPay has also focused on digital integration, partnering with both physical and online merchants to facilitate a smooth payment experience for international cardholders. The collaboration with 213 offline merchants and 166 online platforms enhances card utility, helping consumers effortlessly make payments in both tangible and digital retail environments.
Beginning October 1, 2025, existing dual-currency debit cards will transition into the SplendorPlus Card, offering enhanced benefits and cashback rewards easily accessible via the UnionPay mobile-based U Rewards Platform. This migration is expected to boost both the card issuance rate and transaction activity, firmly positioning the SplendorPlus Card as a competitive option in the market.
UnionPay's introduction of the SplendorPlus Card reflects its commitment to meeting diverse customer needs with targeted financial products. Specifically engineered for long-term visitors and local residents, the card combines global accessibility with specific benefits catering to the unique requirements of cross-border connoisseurs. With offerings now available through 56 institutions in 20 markets, UnionPay’s reach continues to expand, establishing a footprint that covers hundreds of millions of issued cards across 84 nations.
Furthermore, UnionPay is introducing innovative tax refund services, providing instant refund options at both airport and city-center locations, while simultaneously advancing cross-border QR code interoperability. Collaborations with 19 countries allow for familiar payment tools to facilitate transactions for international customers in China, thereby leading to improved convenience and accessibility for both tourists and local merchants.
In summary, the launch of the SplendorPlus Debit Card by UnionPay International and the Bank of China represents a significant step forward in making cross-border payments easier and more rewarding for travelers. With its tailored cashback offer and extensive acceptance network, cardholders can enjoy a more enriching experience during their travels, reaffirming UnionPay’s dedication to enhancing global payment solutions.