KBank and Ant International Join Hands to Improve Cross-Border Payments in Thailand

Under the agreement, KBank will combine its banking and financial services expertise with Ant International’s AI-based financial technology solutions. Together, they plan to enable real-time cross-border USD transactions that can operate 24/7.

The partnership will also use Blockchain Deposit Accounts from Kinexys by J.P. Morgan to support real-time movement of USD funds. This is expected to make transactions much faster and allow continuous payment operations at all times.

In addition, KBank and Ant International aim to develop complete payment solutions covering payment acceptance, clearing, and settlement. However, these plans will still need the required legal and regulatory approvals before implementation.

This partnership will help Ant International improve the speed and efficiency of its incoming and outgoing payments and settlements. As a result, merchants using its services can benefit from better cash flow management.

The collaboration also strengthens KBank’s existing relationship with Ant International’s global payment network. Through Alipay+, Ant International’s digital wallet platform, KBank’s mobile banking app KPLUS is connected to a global network of 150 million merchants and 1.8 billion consumer accounts.

KPLUS is also becoming a popular payment option on Google Pay for merchants in Thailand through its connection with Antom, Ant International’s merchant payment service.

Dr. Karin Boonlertvanich, Executive Vice President of KASIKORNBANK, said, “This collaboration addresses a fundamental limitation in today’s cross-border financial systems, where liquidity movement remains constrained by fragmented infrastructure. By integrating blockchain with regulated financial systems, we are enabling a more continuous, transparent, and scalable flow of funds between global networks and local economies.”

Kelvin Li, General Manager of Platform Tech and Senior Vice President at Ant International, said, “Across emerging markets, industry leaders like KBank are preparing communities for a more interconnected global economy with broader and more secure application of AI and blockchain technology. We are thrilled to support KBank with such fintech solutions to empower Thai merchants – especially small businesses – with more efficient payment tools to thrive globally.”

This agreement shows that both companies are committed to building connected and scalable cross-border financial systems that can make global payments faster, more efficient, and more reliable for international business.

About KASIKORNBANK

KASIKORNBANK PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED (KBank) aims to become a “Bank of Sustainability” by creating long-term value through innovation, responsible growth and strong business practices.

The bank is also strengthening its position in digital banking by launching initiatives that improve financial access and support smooth cross-border payments. This includes building blockchain-based financial systems and regulated digital payment networks in partnership with global technology companies.

About Ant International

Ant International is a global company that provides digital payment, financial technology, and digital business solutions. By working with both private companies and government organizations it helps banks, businesses, and merchants grow through modern digital payment and financial services.