First JCB credit card unveiled in Laos
First JCB credit card unveiled in Laos
Phongsavanh Bank, the first private commercial bank in Laos, has now launched the first JCB credit card in Laos on Wednesday, aiming to allow Lao people to enjoy JCB'S global merchant network, which has over 20 million locations internationally.
“Phongsavanh Bank is the first bank in Laos to become a direct member of JCB International and it allows us to acquire and issue the first JCB credit cards in Laos,” the bank's Managing Director, Ms Sengdao Bouphakonekham, said at the launching ceremony in Vientiane.
She said the bank has already issued visa and master cards but the new brand JCB will be able to offer customers new payment options, greater convenience when making payments and a wide range of benefits for cardholders.
Deputy President of JCB International, Mr Kimihisa Imada said it was significant to have partnered with Phongsavanh Bank as it is now becoming an important force in the Mekong region in terms of the economy.
“The newly-introduced JCB credit card will also allow Japanese customers to access the bank's services through the cards because a large number of them are operating businesses in Laos,” he said.
Phongsavanh Group Chairman Prof. Dr Od Phongsavanh, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in Laos, Mr Masato Iso, Director General of BOL's Bank Supervision Department, Mr Phouthaxay Sivilay and other invited guests were present at the ceremony.
Mr Phouthaxay said the launch of the JCB card in Laos was in line with the government policy to minimise the use of cash in buying and selling in order to ensure safe transactions.
“I'm glad to see the cooperation between Phongsavanh Bank and JCB International has resulted in the launch of a new brand of products to provide greater convenience for cardholders,” he said.
He added that the use of new technologies in the banking system was a key factor to bolster the positive impacts banking services have on socio economic development.
vientiane times
