Singapore has become the third country after Brazil and India where WhatsApp users will be able to pay businesses directly through the app.
Meta has partnered with Stripe to enable businesses to buy and sell directly via chat messages, without having to go to an online website, open another app, or pay in person.
The payment methods include credit and debit cards, and PayNow.
The option to enable payments on WhatsApp is available to local businesses using the WhatsApp Business Platform, which will include a Stripe account.
The new feature is built on Stripe Connect and Stripe Checkout services and is currently available to a small number of businesses.
The feature will be progressively rolled out to other businesses in the coming months.
Stripe Southeast Asia’s regional head and managing director, Sarita Singh said most people in Singapore use WhatsApp as their preferred chat application. "Now, they can pay local businesses using the app," she added.
The speed and convenience of payments through WhatsApp will help businesses expand revenue streams with new channels and access a wider customer base, she added.
Meta’s head of fintech, Stephane Kasriel, said, “People in Singapore can pay local merchants on WhatsApp in just a few taps. This seamless and secure experience will transform the way people and businesses in Singapore connect on WhatsApp,” he added.
