A comparative analysis of mobile payment platforms in China and Kenya

Guan, Yuqing and Tick, Andrea (2025) A comparative analysis of mobile payment platforms in China and Kenya. ECONOMY AND FINANCE: ENGLISH-LANGUAGE EDITION OF GAZDASÁG ÉS PÉNZÜGY, 12 (1). pp. 87-110. ISSN 2415-9379

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Abstract

This study employs the case study method and the comparative analysis method to examine the operation of mobile payment platforms in China and Kenya. Using Alipay and WeChat Pay from China and Kenya’s M-Pesa as research cases, it fo- cuses on analyzing their launch timelines, service functionalities, working mech- anism, user markets as well as their economic and social impact. China’s Alipay and WeChat Pay have achieved remarkable success in domestic and international markets through advanced technology and a broad user base, offering diverse financial services such as payments, wealth management, and credits. However, they have some challenges, such as the adaptability of old people’s groups in the large Chinese market. In contrast, Kenya’s M-Pesa, with its simple SMS-based payment technology, has gained widespread adoption among unbanked popula- tions, promoting financial inclusion. Nevertheless, its functionalities are basic, and it faces difficulties in technological advancement. The study findings offer valuable insights into the success factors, challenges, and future development of mobile payment systems in different countries.

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