Updated 21 October 2026
Kenyan traders import a large share of their stock from China, from phones and electronics to clothing, hardware and machinery parts. Paying Chinese suppliers used to mean bank transfers, agents or costly middlemen. M-Pesa’s Alipay option lets you send money from your M-Pesa wallet to a recipient’s Alipay account in China, linked to their Chinese mobile number or bank account. This guide explains who can use it, where to find it, the limits, the costs and practical tips for traders.
Who Can Use It
- Registered M-Pesa customers.
- Individuals only. The service is not offered for business accounts.
- Up to two lines per person can be used on M-Pesa and Alipay.
- You must be opted in to M-Pesa Global.
Where to Find Alipay on M-Pesa
On the M-Pesa app, Alipay appears as a mini app under the Services tab. It is also available on USSD through the M-Pesa Global menu on *334#.
How to Send Money to Alipay
- Make sure you have opted in to M-Pesa Global.
- Open the Alipay mini app in the M-Pesa app, or go to M-Pesa Global on *334#.
- Enter the recipient’s Alipay ID, which is linked to their Chinese mobile number.
- Confirm the recipient’s name that appears on screen.
- Enter the amount.
- Review the fee, exchange rate and amount in Chinese yuan the recipient will receive.
- Enter your M-Pesa PIN.
Limits
| Limit | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum per transfer | KSh 101 |
| Maximum per transfer | KSh 150,000 |
| Daily limit | KSh 300,000 |
For larger orders, you will need to spread payments over several days or use a bank transfer.
Fees and Exchange Rate
The fee and the exchange rate are both shown before you confirm. Compare the final yuan amount with the invoice from your supplier. If the supplier quotes in US dollars, ask them for the yuan equivalent so you can check you are sending the right amount.
A Built In Safety Check
If you enter a wrong Alipay ID, the transaction does not go through, and you see the registered name before confirming. This reduces the risk of sending to the wrong person. Still, confirm the recipient’s details directly with your supplier before sending, ideally by a voice or video call.
Tips for Traders Paying Chinese Suppliers
- Verify the supplier. Use trusted platforms, ask for business licences and start with small orders.
- Get a proforma invoice showing the amount, goods and supplier details.
- Keep every confirmation message as proof of payment.
- Watch out for changed payment details. If a supplier suddenly sends a new account, confirm by phone. Fraudsters sometimes hack emails to redirect payments.
- Plan for import costs. Shipping, clearing and duty often cost more than new importers expect.
Understanding the Cost of Paying in Yuan
Your supplier receives yuan, while you pay in shillings. Two things affect the final cost: the transfer fee and the exchange rate on the day. Small differences in the rate add up on big orders. Before paying a large invoice, check the yuan amount shown on screen and compare it with the shillings you are paying. If the rate seems poor, check again later or compare with your bank. Keep a simple record for each order showing the shillings paid, the yuan received by the supplier and the fee, so you can work out your true landed cost when you price your goods for sale in Kenya.
Building Trust With a New Supplier
Start with a small sample order paid through Alipay before sending larger amounts. Ask for photos or videos of your goods before shipping, and agree in writing on quantities, quality and delivery dates. Many Kenyan importers also use clearing agents they trust to receive and inspect goods at the port.
When Another Option Is Better
Alipay on M-Pesa suits small and medium payments by individuals. For large shipments or business to business payments, a bank transfer or a licensed payment provider may suit better because of higher limits and formal records for your accounts. Small importers can also read our guide to choosing between Pochi, till and paybill for collecting payments from customers back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a business send money to China through M-Pesa Alipay?
No. The service is for individual customers.
What happens if I enter the wrong Alipay ID?
The transaction will not go through.
What is the most I can send to China in a day?
KSh 300,000, with a maximum of KSh 150,000 per transfer.
Do I need to activate anything first?
Yes, opt in to M-Pesa Global.
Can I receive money from China on M-Pesa?
Receiving depends on the sender’s provider. Ask whether they support payouts to M-Pesa.
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