Fuzhou expands city pass to financial sector

The convenience of the Fuzhou-Matsu City Pass was extended recently to the financial sector, allowing residents from Matsu to get personal loans and make online payments with greater ease.

Lin Jianxiong, a resident of Matsu, Taiwan, registered and received the new financial version of the pass at the Minjiang branch of Haixia Bank of Fujian on Friday.

Chen Yan, retail financial director of the bank, noted that the new version of the pass adds comprehensive financial services to allow Matsu residents to get seamless access to personal loans, currency exchange, salary remittances, transfers and withdrawals, online payments and other essential services, strengthening cross-Strait collaboration.

Residents can apply at designated bank branches and service points in Fuzhou, Fujian province, or through an online application system. The initiative supports the "same-city living circle" concept between Fuzhou and Matsu, facilitating smoother everyday life for Matsu residents working or living in Fuzhou.

The pass aligns with policy goals outlined by officials in September 2022, which encourages deeper ties between Fuzhou and Matsu through shared services and benefits.

The recent launch is based on previous measures released in March by Fuzhou, which consist of discount policies across various aspects of life including transportation, education and housing.

In May, Fuzhou continued to promote equal access to public services, making it easier for Matsu residents to live, work, and thrive in Fuzhou. Then, in October, it expanded service to the financial sector.

"The new card provides both financial convenience and lifestyle benefits," Lin said, citing his 10 years of experience working in Fuzhou's textile export trade.

Guo Yanqi contributed to this story.