Singapore – Western Union has launched a new Weixin Mini Program in partnership with TenPay Global, Tencent’s cross-border payment platform.
The lightweight application operates within the Weixin/WeChat ecosystem and is designed to let users in Australia send money to family and loved ones in China.
Unlike a standalone app, the Mini Program requires no separate download or installation. Instead, users can access it directly through Weixin/WeChat’s Discover tab, search function, chats, or nearby listings. Once opened, the registration and login process is straightforward.
Users then complete a one-time identity verification step, using either an Australian driver’s licence or passport. From there, the process is designed to be quick. Users can add recipients, pay via bank transfer or debit/credit card, and select their preferred payout method, all within a few taps.
According to Western Union, funds are typically available within minutes of a transaction being completed. The launch reflects a broader push by both companies to embed remittance services into everyday digital platforms rather than requiring separate financial apps.
“We’re delighted to partner with TenPay Global to help our millions of users in Australia send money – quickly and safely – to family in China using Western Union’s global money transfer network,” said Gregory Laurent, Western Union’s Regional Vice President (Japan, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands).
“Supporting our customers is at the heart of everything we do. This launch marks an exciting milestone in our digital innovation journey in Australia, bringing together the strength of the Western Union and Weixin/WeChat ecosystems to deliver a seamless, integrated remittance experience,” he added.
For TenPay Global, the partnership builds on its existing relationship with Western Union.
“TenPay Global is pleased to deepen its collaboration with Western Union and further connect the Weixin ecosystem with global partners,” said Wenhui Yang, CEO of TenPay Global (Singapore).
“Western Union’s Weixin Mini Program makes cross-border remittances more convenient and accessible for users in Australia, allowing them to send money swiftly and securely to loved ones in China through an everyday platform they trust. We will continue to develop payment solutions that enhance cross-border connectivity and create meaningful value for both senders and recipients”, Yang continued.
The Mini Program adds to a growing number of integrations between global remittance providers and Chinese super-app ecosystems, as companies look to reduce friction for diaspora communities sending money home.
