With this, the bank will issue, ‘for the first time ever,’ UnionPay branded US dollar prepaid card which can be used by Nepali citizens with travel needs to China and beyond for a variety of purposes. Any merchant in China who is equipped with a point-of-sale terminal will accept the UnionPay card. Moreover, HBL-UnionPay pre-paid card holders will get over 1,000 offers and specially curated experience in more than 18 countries covering shopping, dining and entertainment among others, HBL said in a statement.

“The UnionPay launch is very important milestone in establishing more objective and secure cross-border payment services to China and other countries,” said Ashoke SJB Rana, Himalayan Bank CEO.

David Lee, chief cooperation officer of Union Pay International, said they were committed to bring secure, convenient and innovative solutions to partners, merchants and card holders. “The collaboration will bring innovative products to meet market needs,” he said. HBL offers free subscriptions for limited period as an introductory offer.