🇨🇳 China
Stablecoin-to-CNY Payments for Expats in China
Pipe is a stablecoin wallet app with two balances: a stablecoin wallet (USDC/USDT on Base) and a local fiat wallet. When you scan a merchant's QR code in China, Pipe instantly converts your stablecoins to CNY and settles the merchant in fiat. This service is designed for foreign nationals, expats, and international travellers holding dollar-pegged stablecoins — not for mainland Chinese residents. China has broad QR payment infrastructure, and Pipe works at QR-accepting merchants. Important: cryptocurrency use by mainland Chinese residents is subject to strict regulatory restrictions. Consult a qualified legal advisor before using this service.
USDC & USDT
Supported stablecoins
Base network
Built on
Expats only
Foreign nationals
Why Stablecoins for Expats in China?
China has one of the world's most advanced QR payment ecosystems — but accessing it as a foreign national can be challenging without a Chinese bank account. Foreign expats, business travellers, and digital nomads often hold USD-pegged stablecoins as a stable store of value. Pipe bridges that gap: you hold USDC or USDT and Pipe converts to CNY at the point of payment, settling the merchant in fiat. Note: this use case is specifically for non-resident foreign nationals. Mainland Chinese residents face strict regulatory prohibitions on cryptocurrency and should not use this service.
How Pipe Works
Step 1
Deposit USDC or USDT
Top up your Pipe wallet with USDC or USDT from any exchange or wallet. Card top-up is also supported.
Step 2
Scan a QR code
Open Pipe, tap Pay, and scan the merchant's QR code. Pipe converts your stablecoins to CNY at real-time rates.
Step 3
Merchant receives fiat
The merchant receives CNY immediately. No waiting, no volatility exposure on their end.
Step 4
More markets — coming soon
We're expanding to more merchants and markets. Join the waitlist to be first when new regions launch.
Pipe vs Your Alternatives
| Feature | Pipe | Crypto Card | Bank Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | < 2 minutes | 3–7 business days | 1–3 days (international) |
| Merchant acceptance | QR-accepting terminals | Visa/Mastercard only | Bank account required |
| Conversion fees | Real-time FX rate | 1–3% + FX spread | 2–5% wire fee |
| Stablecoin support | USDC & USDT | Varies by provider | None |
| Privacy | No card number exposed | Card details shared | Bank account shared |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pipe's China service for?
Pipe's China service is designed exclusively for foreign nationals, expats, and international travellers visiting or living in China who hold USDC or USDT. It is not intended for mainland Chinese residents. Mainland Chinese residents face strict regulatory restrictions on cryptocurrency — please consult a qualified legal advisor before using any crypto service in China.
Is USDC legal in China?
China has imposed broad restrictions on cryptocurrency for mainland residents, including bans on crypto trading and mining. Foreign nationals visiting China are generally subject to their home country's regulations for holding crypto assets. Pipe settles merchants in CNY fiat — merchants never receive cryptocurrency. This service is for foreign nationals only. Always consult a qualified legal advisor for your specific situation.
How do I pay by QR in China with stablecoins?
With Pipe, you deposit USDC or USDT into your stablecoin wallet, then scan a merchant's QR code to pay. Pipe instantly converts your stablecoins to CNY and settles the merchant in local currency — they receive fiat, not crypto. Coverage depends on the payment terminal the merchant uses.
What stablecoins does Pipe support?
Pipe currently supports USDC and USDT on the Base network. You can hold whichever you prefer and Pipe converts either to CNY at checkout.
Which merchants accept Pipe in China?
Pipe works at merchants that accept QR payments. Coverage depends on the payment terminal the merchant uses — not all QR codes in China are compatible. We're actively expanding merchant acceptance. Join the waitlist for updates.
Use your stablecoins in China
Join the Pipe waitlist — for foreign expats and travellers in China. Top up with USDC or USDT, and Pipe handles the conversion to CNY.
Join WaitlistCompare payment options: Crypto Card vs QR Payments in Singapore