SHENZHEN recently launched a “worry-free prepaid” initiative to better protect consumer rights in the city, Shenzhen Economic Daily reported.

The initiative comes in response to the growing trend of prepaid shopping in various economic sectors and challenges caused by deceptive practices in the prepaid industry.

Spearheaded by the Shenzhen Municipal Market Supervision and Regulation Bureau, the initiative aims to create a safer and more transparent environment for prepaid transactions made within the city’s commercial districts.

A key feature of this initiative is the “Scan-to-Check Prepayment QR Code” system, which allows consumers to access crucial information about prepaid merchants, including licensing registration, reported complaints, and administrative penalties, before making a purchase. This system will help consumers make informed decisions.

Officials from the bureau have emphasized the significance of this initiative in enhancing consumer confidence and promoting fair business practices. By leveraging digital technologies like the digital RMB in prepaid transactions, the initiative ensures the security of prepaid funds and encourages the growth of reliable prepaid enterprises.

By increasing transparency, the initiative aims to build trust between consumers and merchants, ultimately promoting responsible and reputable prepaid businesses. It also offers diverse service channels for consumers through collaborations with banks and commercial districts, further enhancing the overall prepaid experience.

The Tianhe City shopping center in Luohu District was the first in the nation to introduce prepaid digital RMB cards. The success of the initiative is evident from the shopping center’s remarkable sales performance and increased customer traffic.

(Windy Shao)