UnionPay International, the leading global card scheme, has entered into an issuing agreement with HALKBANK A.D. BEOGRAD to enhance the payment experience and acceptance coverage of existing Dina card issued by HALKBANK.

The signing ceremony took place in Shanghai on 30th May 2024, marking the beginning of a collaborative effort between UnionPay International and HALKBANK A.D. BEOGRAD. The collaboration aims to issue 80,000 Dina-UnionPay dual-brand cards over the next 18 months. These cards will seamlessly combine the strengths of both UnionPay and HALKBANK, offering cardholders enhanced convenience and UnionPay's global acceptance.

UnionPay International's acceptance network has been extended to 183 countries and regions, including great acceptance in Chinese mainland and 67 million merchants outside Chinese mainland, providing consumers in Serbia with access to cross-border payment across international markets. Furthermore, UnionPay's acceptance infrastructures, marketing campaigns, and cardholder benefits in Chinese mainland will be available to HALKBANK, paving the way for future cooperation. The launch of the SplendorPlus Card is planned, targeting cross-border travelers visiting Chinese mainland.

"HALKBANK's commitment to business development strengthens ties between Serbia and China. By leveraging the robust infrastructure of UnionPay International, combined with HALKBANK's strength in innovation, flexibility, and dedication to constant technological improvement, we are confident that together we can establish new market standards and achieve a significant competitive advantage." said Hasan Comert, Member of the Executive Board of HALKBANK Belgrade.

UnionPay International and HALKBANK have been cooperating for a long time. Over 90% of merchants' POS terminals and ATMs in Serbia already accept UnionPay cards, including all POS terminals and ATMs under HALKBANK. "Our collaboration with HALKBANK represents a significant milestone," said Larry Wang, UnionPay International. "Residents of Serbia will have a wider range of payment options, whether for local consumption or for cross-border travel to China, to enjoy the convenient payment services provided by UnionPay. We are honored to bring more convenience to the friendly exchanges between the two peoples. "