GCB Bank PLC has partnered with UnionPay International to introduce Ghana’s first Chinese Yuan prepaid cards, allowing Ghanaian traders, businesses and travellers to make payments directly in China’s currency without converting their funds through other foreign currencies.

The initiative is expected to simplify transactions for Ghanaians doing business in China, particularly importers who regularly travel to the country to purchase goods.

The cards were officially launched on Monday, October 26, 2026, in Shanghai, China, as part of efforts to strengthen trade and financial relations between the two countries.

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Under the partnership, customers will be able to use the Yuan prepaid cards to make payments through QR codes, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, automated teller machines (ATMs) and other supported payment channels.

The arrangement will allow Ghanaian businesses and travellers to pay directly in Yuan, reducing the need to convert funds through currencies such as the US dollar before making payments in China.

It could also help customers reduce some currency conversion costs and make international transactions more convenient.

Speaking at the launch, GCB Bank Managing Director Farihan Alhassan reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to helping Ghanaian businesses access international markets and take advantage of trade opportunities.

He said the partnership formed part of the bank’s efforts to simplify banking services and strengthen business ties between Ghana and China.

The launch was attended by GCB Bank Board Chairman Prof. Joshua Alabi, Board Member Dr. Abdulai Alhassan, Head of SOEs and Afro-Asia Banking Auriela Baaba Odame, and Chief of Staff Abraham Ferguson.

Representatives of UnionPay International, including Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Larry Wang, were also present.

The introduction of the cards marks a new development in Ghana-China financial relations, particularly for Ghanaian traders who rely on China as a major source of imported goods.

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GCB Bank says the initiative forms part of its broader efforts to connect Ghanaian businesses to global markets and make international transactions easier.



DR/MA

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