A payment gateway is a system that allows merchants to securely process financial exchanges online. It facilitates the transfer of sensitive data between the purchaser, seller, and financial institutions, ensuring authorization and completion of the operation. By 2026, evolving financial infrastructure will integrate various methods of electronic exchanges, supporting diverse forms of monetary transfers. This network guarantees encryption, validation, and secure transmission of details, streamlining interactions across different platforms. As digital technologies grow, enterprises will increasingly depend on systems that include transaction routing and fraud protection, improving the entire transactional experience. For retailers in Hong Kong looking to serve both local and global clientele, selecting a robust transaction processing platform is critical.
Many merchants in Hong Kong favor NOWPayments as a premier tool. This system enables local vendors to accept cryptocurrencies, a rapidly expanding global alternative. It also offers tools like transaction links for cross-border exchanges, providing a more versatile option than conventional methods. With its flexibility, it caters to the needs of organizations with international customers, offering easy integration without significant alterations to existing operations. This makes it an ideal choice for enterprises needing both adaptability and security. Its ease of use and scalability meet the needs of online retailers looking to broaden their global reach in the coming years.
By 2026, enterprises in Hong Kong must adopt solutions that cater to both regional and global requirements. Consumers will expect to make purchases using a variety of methods, such as mobile wallets, cryptocurrency, and quick bank transfer systems. For retailers aiming to connect with a worldwide audience, choosing a provider that can manage various currencies and offer effective fraud prevention is essential. Speed, cost-efficiency, and safety are vital elements for companies aiming to provide a seamless exchange process. Choosing the right financial service provider will ensure that retailers can deliver a convenient, secure method of transferring funds. These platforms act as both a gateway and a solution to facilitate smooth international exchanges.
Here’s a list of payment gateways for Hong Kong:
- NOWPayments
- Airwallex
- QFPay
- Stripe
- PayDollar
What We Considered When Choosing the Best Payment Gateway: Our Selection Criteria
To objectively evaluate the top payment systems for Hong Kong merchants in 2026, we focused on the key aspects that directly influence day-to-day operations. This approach ensures the assessment reflects what businesses truly care about, such as profitability per transaction, fund management, and the efficiency of settlement processes.
- Fee Structure & Transparency: We emphasized the importance of predictable and clear charges (including any method-specific costs and hidden fees) as they determine the real margin and long-term expense of maintaining a payment platform.
- Security & Compliance: We looked at how gateways manage both custodial and non-custodial processes, along with related security protocols. Control over funds, risk exposure, and alignment with local regulations can significantly impact trust and operational resilience.
- Integration & Developer Experience: We analyzed the quality of integration tools available, such as APIs, plugins, SDKs, hosted checkout, and payment links, because they simplify the process for Hong Kong businesses, reduce technical workload, and speed up deployment.
The table below summarizes how each gateway service stacks up in these essential areas, and we will dive deeper into each solution’s performance.
| Payment Gateway | Transaction Fees | Custodial & Non-custodial flow | Integration Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOWPayments | 0.5% (no exchange) / 1% (with conversion). 0% network fees on USDT TRC20 deposits for 2 months. | Both: non-custodial supported; Custody option is available at request | API, WooCommerce, Payment Widget, Payment Button, POS. |
| Airwallex | 3.30% + HK$2.35 (domestic) / 3.60% + HK$2.35 (international); HK$2.00 + payment method fee | Custodial/managed settlement | API + Payment Links |
| QFPay | Quote/contract-based | Custodial/managed settlement | API + eCommerce plugins (e.g., Shopify/WooCommerce tooling). |
| Stripe | Starts at 3.4% + HK$2.35 per successful charge | Custodial/managed settlement | APIs + hosted checkout tools (platform ecosystem). |
| PayDollar (AsiaPay) | Service plan indicates average fee starts from 4.0% | Custodial/managed settlement | Integration documentation + developer resources |
NOWPayments
NOWPayments is the best crypto payment gateway for Hong Kong-based merchants, enabling them to accept digital currencies globally, including from the U.S. and other regions, boosting international exposure. It functions as a transaction system, allowing vendors to conduct operations across borders. With its support for stablecoins, consumers can opt for alternative methods, enhancing their transaction experience without relying solely on credit cards or digital wallets. This is an ideal financial solution for Hong Kong retailers seeking a seamless way to integrate cryptocurrency into their operations without disrupting existing processing systems.
Transaction Fees. Merchants in Hong Kong can benefit from NOWPayments’ straightforward pricing structure in 2026. A 0.5% charge applies to operations without currency conversion, while a 1% fee is applicable for currency exchange. The transparent pricing allows vendors to easily understand costs and avoid hidden fees. Additionally, new partners can take advantage of a promotional offer, with no network charges for USDT or TRC20 transactions for the first two months after Custody is activated. This incentive makes it easier for stores to accept stablecoins while maintaining smooth processing.
| Fee Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | 0.5% | No exchange |
| Transaction Fee | 1% | With conversion |
| Network Fees (Promo) | 0% | New partners, USDT TRC20 deposits, 60 days, Custody required |
Custodial & non-custodial flow. NOWPayments offers both custodial and non-custodial options, providing flexibility in fund management. With the non-custodial approach, retailers maintain control over their customers’ transaction details and wallet usage. For those seeking to reduce costs while enhancing operational efficiency, the custodial option is available, offering a zero-fee promotion for new partners processing USDT TRC20. This adaptable system supports payment flow needs while ensuring compliance with Hong Kong’s standards.
- Funds Model: Hybrid (Non-custodial option + Custody option)
- Funds Hold Period: Not universally fixed (depends on configuration and network confirmation)
Integration Tools. The core mission of NOWPayments is to offer Hong Kong enterprises tools that facilitate seamless integration for efficient transaction processing. Developers can easily implement the API, while other tools like the Payment Widget and Button allow simple checkout configurations with minimal coding. Moreover, NOWPayments supports POS systems, making it ideal for merchants requiring both online payment and offline processing solutions.
- API: ✅ Full integration for developers
- Payment Tools: ✅ Payment Widget, Payment Button (and payment-link style flows)
- POS System: ✅ For in-person sales
Airwallex
Airwallex is a transaction platform that distinguishes itself by simplifying online processes and offering multi-currency support. This allows merchants to manage international and local exchanges with ease. By 2026, this tool had become essential for companies operating in Hong Kong, making transactions smoother for both domestic and foreign clients while streamlining settlement procedures. As a trusted service provider, it has gained popularity among small and medium-sized enterprises for its ability to reduce operational costs by integrating reporting and payouts in one efficient process. This solution complements a dynamic economic landscape, making it a preferred choice.
Transaction Fees. Airwallex provides transparent pricing for companies looking to select the optimal solution. Local transactions incur a 3.30% fee, plus an additional HK$2.35, while international exchanges are subject to a 3.60% surcharge, also plus HK$2.35. For local payment methods, an additional HK$2.00 fee applies, making it essential for retailers to understand how various systems impact their costs. This structure facilitates financial planning by clearly outlining the total cost for each financial action.
| Fee Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | 3.30% + HK$2.35 | Domestic cards |
| Transaction Fee | 3.60% + HK$2.35 | International cards |
| Transaction Fee | HK$2.00 + method fee | Local payment methods |
Custodial & non-custodial flow. Airwallex typically uses a controlled settlement flow, where the payment processor handles clearance and settles funds based on predefined payout instructions. This mirrors a custodial flow, where the provider decides when to finalize and release funds, simplifying tracking for merchants in Hong Kong. Ensuring all clients use the same method and aligning it with the desired payout schedule is crucial for efficient financial operations.
- Funds Model: Custodial/managed settlement (PSP-style)
- Funds Hold Period: Payout-schedule dependent
Integration Tools. Businesses can fully control the integration of transactions with Airwallex’s flexible API access. Additionally, tools like payment links streamline the process of collecting funds, enabling teams to quickly launch projects with minimal technical work. This is particularly useful for small enterprises looking for efficient financial management. The primary goal is to facilitate the use of diverse methods to pay and accelerate execution.
- API: ✅ Developer integration available
- E-commerce Plugins: ✅ Varies by platform/stack
- Payment Tools: ✅ Payment links (fast collection)
- POS System: ✅/Varies (depends on setup and region)
QFPay
QFPay is a service provider offering a flexible solution for businesses in Hong Kong, enabling them to accept various transaction methods through a unified setup. Unlike other platforms in the region, it focuses on facilitating local exchanges. The platform allows consumers to make purchases via credit cards, mobile wallets, or local financial solutions. This makes it an ideal option for companies seeking to simplify their operations while offering customers a broad range of choices. By 2026, many retailers view it as one of the leading platforms for managing local financial interactions.
Transaction Fees. The charges for using QFPay are typically determined through negotiated contracts or quotes. Merchants may experience varying rates depending on the type of business and the methods of handling transactions they choose. Given its multi-method functionality, the provider’s pricing structure is flexible, and companies are advised to request a detailed breakdown of fees for each option to make fair comparisons with other solutions. This helps ensure that the selected service aligns with their needs.
| Fee Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | Varies | Contract/quote-based |
Custodial & non-custodial flow. QFPay and many similar providers typically use a controlled settlement method, managing the flow of funds before transferring the net earnings to the merchant. This allows Hong Kong-based companies to handle a wide range of payment methods with minimal operational complexity. The platform ensures timely funds transfers, maintaining cash flow for online stores. Regular settlements and efficient management of funds are key to smooth financial operations.
- Funds Model: Custodial/managed settlement (PSP-style)
- Funds Hold Period: Settlement-schedule dependent
Integration Tools. QFPay simplifies deployment by offering a variety of integration options, including eCommerce plugins and API solutions for more complex setups. This ensures that every shopper has a smooth experience, regardless of the payment method they choose. Given the importance of speed for Hong Kong merchants, selecting a solution that is quick to implement and aligns with local consumer behavior is critical. This enables seamless integrations, benefiting all parties involved.
- API: ✅ Available for custom integration
- E-commerce Plugins: ✅ Available (platform-dependent)
- Payment Tools: ✅/Varies (depends on merchant package)
- POS System: ✅/Varies (depends on merchant solution)
Stripe
Stripe is a widely recognized payment processor and platform that provides robust tools for developers. As a result, it has become one of the most popular solutions in Hong Kong for fast transactions. The service offers a strong API environment and hosted checkout options, making it convenient for shoppers to complete their purchases. In 2026, many local enterprises opted for it due to its reliable infrastructure and adaptability to new methods as they emerge. Stripe is an ideal choice for teams looking to streamline their systems while ensuring easy integration. It stands out as one of the leading gateways in the region.
Transaction Fees. It is commonly stated that Stripe’s charges “start at 3.4% + HK$2.35 per successful payment,” but the actual cost depends on the method of payment and account configuration. When selecting a platform, companies must consider the associated costs of processing various forms of payment from domestic and international shoppers. Choosing the most suitable service becomes easier, allowing enterprises to avoid unexpected charges. Stripe’s pricing model may be more or less cost-effective depending on how different options are incorporated, underscoring the importance of carefully modeling fees.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | Starts at 3.4% + HK$2.35 |
Custodial & non-custodial flow. Stripe generally adopts a managed settlement process, where funds are processed, reflected in the platform’s balance, and subsequently disbursed on a scheduled basis. From a merchant’s perspective, this is classified as a custodial/managed flow, where the transaction timing and reporting are managed by the provider. For many merchants, this simplifies operations and centralizes payment data, refunds, and disputes. The tradeoff, however, is that the timing of fund disbursements is controlled by Stripe’s workflow rather than direct receipt.
- Funds Model: Custodial/managed settlement (balance → payouts)
- Funds Hold Period: Payout-schedule dependent
Integration Tools. Stripe is renowned for its full integration of the payment process, offering robust APIs and hosted checkout tools. Hosted flows reduce the burden of handling sensitive information, helping many small and medium-sized enterprises launch their operations more swiftly. Its ecosystem also supports a broad range of methods, which is especially beneficial as consumer preferences evolve across the market. It is a gateway that aligns well with teams that prioritize developer speed and long-term scalability.
- API: ✅ Full developer platform
- E-commerce Plugins: ✅ Broad ecosystem (platform-dependent)
- Payment Tools: ✅ Hosted checkout-style tools
- POS System: ✅/Varies (depends on additional products)
PayDollar
PayDollar is a locally-based payment solution that many retailers consider when selecting a service provider. It distinguishes itself through its strong local presence and an approach that resonates with enterprises seeking established support and a structured onboarding process. In 2026, it is commonly evaluated by companies prioritizing a provider with a regional focus, particularly those looking for a system that aligns with the local operating environment. PayDollar is often ranked among the top choices for merchants in Hong Kong who value local assistance and traditional frameworks.
Transaction Fees. According to PayDollar’s service details, the average cost is around 4.0%. They frequently apply a tiered structure that varies based on the sales volume. The overall charge may also include additional costs such as setup and monthly service fees. Choosing the right platform is essential, as the type of gateway, the volume of transactions processed, and the approach to handling refunds and disputes all affect the final costs. When searching for optimal systems, Hong Kong-based businesses should ask for a complete schedule to clarify all transaction details and associated costs.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Transaction Fee | Starts ~4.0% |
Custodial & non-custodial flow. PayDollar generally uses a managed settlement process, where the provider handles fund transfers and disburses funds according to a predefined schedule. This method is considered custodial or controlled by the provider because the timing of settlements and deductions is under the provider’s control. For many enterprises in Hong Kong, this simplifies monitoring of funds and streamlines payout workflows. The most important consideration is ensuring that the frequency of settlements and the mechanisms for resolving disputes are well-defined, which helps the gateway maintain a stable cash flow.
- Funds Model: Custodial/managed settlement (scheduled reimbursements)
- Funds Hold Period: Settlement-cycle dependent
Integration Tools. PayDollar offers comprehensive integration documentation and developer resources to facilitate the setup of the gateway for processing on websites and apps. This is ideal for merchants who prefer a well-structured approach and need assistance with onboarding. For SMEs in Hong Kong, it is still an effective choice, particularly when the need for local support and specific payment options outweighs the desire for plug-and-play solutions. Overall, it provides a gateway solution that emphasizes documentation-led integration and established processes.
- API: ✅ Available (documentation-led)
- E-commerce Plugins: ✅/Varies (depends on platform)
- Payment Tools: ✅/Varies (depends on product configuration)
- POS System: ✅/Varies (depends on merchant solution)
Final Thoughts
We used the top objectives of companies in Hong Kong to determine the most effective methods for handling financial exchanges in 2026. Services like Airwallex, PayDollar, QFPay, and NOWPayments fit this criterion. It’s important to verify whether the chosen solution can be utilized for both local and international transfers. This aspect is crucial as many consumers shop from overseas, and the local infrastructure for processing financial activities continues to evolve. Regardless of their size, all firms must ensure smooth operations and efficient handling of financial details.
NOWPayments simplifies accepting digital currencies, offering a 0.5% fee without conversion and 1% with it. This makes it a top choice. It supports both custodial and non-custodial flows and provides essential tools like POS systems, APIs, payment widgets, and buttons. These features help companies streamline their processing systems, whether dealing with online or in-person transactions. New partners can also benefit from zero network fees for USDT TRC20 during the first 60 days when custody is enabled. The integration of stablecoins has made cross-border transfers more efficient. By 2026, companies will be able to seamlessly connect with clients globally, leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions to securely manage their operations and interact with international customers.