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Letters | Hong Kong voucher scheme can boost economy, shift to digital payments
- Convenience and simplicity will benefit shoppers and could encourage the elderly to keep pace with technological development
I am writing in response to the report “Payment firms chosen for city voucher scheme” (April 12). The Hong Kong government has proposed a HK$5,000 (US$650) voucher scheme to boost the local economy. Four electronic payment service providers – AlipayHK, Octopus, Tap & Go and WeChat Pay HK – have been chosen to operate the scheme.
I welcome the voucher scheme as it could have a positive effect on the local economy during the coronavirus pandemic, encouraging Hongkongers to shop. One of the advantages of electronic payments is that they are convenient.
Everyone only needs to scan the QR code at the shop to complete payment. There is no need to wait for change. People who use electronic payment systems need not worry about forgetting their wallet because they can use their phone to pay.
Apart from that, this scheme could also encourage more people to try out electronic payments, especially the elderly. It could encourage the elderly to keep pace with technological development.
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Chinese man mistakenly puts phone in cash box to pay bus fare
Chinese man mistakenly puts phone in cash box to pay bus fare
However, one major drawback is that not all shops have installed the equipment needed to provide e-payment services. Most of the shops that have that equipment are larger businesses.
Shops that cannot provide e-payment services will not benefit from the voucher scheme. While some small shops do not have the ability to install the e-payment devices, others might decide it is not worth it to do so.
Kelvin Cheng, Kwun Tong
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