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

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People queue up to buy food at a wet market in North Point on March 31. Smaller businesses could miss out on the benefits of the city’s digital voucher scheme. Photo: Felix Wong

Published: 7:30am, 27 Apr 2021Updated: 7:30am, 27 Apr 2021

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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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.