Anyone travelling to China for business will quickly notice that payments, navigation, communication and hotel bookings are largely handled digitally—and often differently than in Germany. Good preparation can therefore make everyday business activities much easier once you are there.
The Frankfurt Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK Frankfurt am Main) has prepared a useful guide explaining how to set up and use essential apps, together with practical information on entry requirements, eSIMs and public transport. We have summarised the most important tips from the guide, “Greater China to Go – Your Access to the Digital Business Universe in Greater China,” for you.
Essential Apps for Travel to China: the following apps and websites can be helpful during your stay in China
Alipay
Mobile payments and digital services. You can link your German credit card, book admission tickets for tourist attractions and access many other services.
Communication, business contacts and payments. You can also link your credit card and use WeChat for maintaining contacts, similar to LinkedIn. In many cases, messages are sent via WeChat instead of email.
AMap Global
Navigation and route planning
Trip.com
Hotel and travel bookings
Baidu Translate
Translation while travelling
Business travellers should install and test the most important apps before departure whenever possible. Registration and use may vary depending on your smartphone, destination and payment provider.
Making Payments in China with Alipay
Mobile payment services are widely used in everyday life in China. In most cases, users either scan a QR code or present the code generated by their payment app. Before travelling, it is advisable to check whether your credit card or bank account is supported and whether any additional registration or verification is required.
Communication via WeChat
WeChat is an important communication channel in China and is also widely used in business settings. The app can be useful for purposes including:
- Communicating with business partners
- Arranging appointments
- Exchanging contact details
- Group communication
- Sending documents and location information
Navigation, eSIMs and Translation
For navigation, the guide introduces AMap Global. The app supports route planning, public transport information, and searches for hotels or company addresses.
Internet access should also be clarified before departure. The IHK guide provides information on eSIMs. Travellers should check whether their smartphone supports eSIM technology and which roaming or data plan is suitable for use in China.
For simple translations while travelling, Baidu Translate can be helpful—for example, in taxis, hotels or restaurants. For business negotiations and legally relevant documents, however, professional translation services should be used.
Checklist for Your Trip to China
Before departure, business travellers should:
- Check their smartphone and charging accessories
- Set up an eSIM or roaming
- Install Alipay and WeChat
- Clarify payment options and verification requirements
View the China Guide
The guide is available as a PDF download and, according to IHK Frankfurt, is not accessible for people with disabilities.
We Support You with Your China Journey
Whether you are looking for new business partners or planning a delegation trip to China, we are here to support you.
FAQ
Which apps are essential for a business trip to China?
Alipay, WeChat, AMap Global, Trip.com and Baidu Translate are among the applications mentioned in the IHK guide.
What should I prepare before travelling to China?
In particular, you should check your internet access, mobile payment options, communication channels, navigation tools and translation options before departure.
How can AHK Greater China support me during my business trip to China?
We offer business partner searches, delegation trips and many other services.