Shenzhen Welcomes Global Shoppers with International-Friendly Services
SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 10, 2025 – Tafadzwa Mackenzie Kadere (Taf), a Shenzhen Global Communication Ambassador from the U.K., recently visited Qianhai Uniway shopping mall in Shenzhen’s Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone. His visit highlighted the mall’s efforts to enhance international shopping experiences for foreign visitors and residents.
Qianhai has recently introduced its first batch of “International-Friendly Shopping Areas” and “International-Friendly Merchants” to create a more inclusive and accessible retail environment. Among the first designated shopping areas are Qianhai Uniway and Breeze Valley at Qianhai MixC, where more than 15 certified merchants cater to international customers.
To earn the “International-Friendly Merchant” status, stores must offer international payment options, bilingual menus, and service lists. Additionally, staff are required to have basic English communication skills, with some providing fluent English services. Employees who meet these criteria wear smiley face badges to signal their ability to assist international customers.
During his visit, Taf explored several of these merchants. At a Western-style restaurant, he encountered signage identifying it as an International-Friendly Merchant and seamlessly completed his order and payment with the assistance of English-speaking staff. He also visited a bar where a bilingual menu clearly detailed food and drink options, allowing him to make informed choices with ease.
At Qianhai Uniway’s reception desk, Taf noted English-language instructions on linking bank cards with WeChat and Alipay—an initiative aimed at making mobile payments more accessible for international visitors unfamiliar with China’s digital payment systems.
With these initiatives, Qianhai is strengthening its appeal as an international commercial hub. Looking ahead, the district plans to further enhance its global accessibility and foster a multicultural environment within Shenzhen.
The Shenzhen Global Communication Ambassador Program, launched by EyeShenzhen in June 2023, engages international influencers to share insights on Shenzhen’s development and promote cross-cultural dialogue through media platforms.
