CRDB Bank accepts American Express cards

CRDB Bank Plc and American Express have entered into a strategic collaboration that enables the former to the latter’s transactions within its network.

The deal, which broadens the range of payment services for customers carrying American Express cards when visiting Tanzania, was officially launched here during an event that was graced by the Arusha Regional Commissioner, Mr John Mongela.

It allows holders of American Express cards to withdraw cash from over 550 Bank’s ATMs across Tanzania and to easily make payments at various service points in the country equipped with CRDB’s Point of Sales (POS) and online payment gateway (e-commerce).

Since 2017, American Express has tripled the number of locations accepting its cards, with current usage in 80 million locations worldwide.

CRDB Bank CEO, Abdulmajid Nsekela, said the collaboration provides tourists and foreign businesspeople more payment options.

“Of recent, we have witnessed a significant improvement in the tourism sector, leading to a substantial increase in the number of tourists due to the government’s efforts to promote the country and its attractions. Our agreement with American Express will enhance the payment experience for visitors in the country and open up new business opportunities, fostering the growth of our local business,” said Nsekela.

Bank of Tanzania (BoT) figures show that the country received 1,750,557 tourists during the year ending October, 2023, up from 1,381,881 in the year to October 2022. Tanzania earned $3.226 billion from tourism during the year ending October, 2023, up from $2.335 billion during the preceding year.

The Vice President and General Manager for American Express’ Europe, the Middle East and Africa region, Ms Briana Wilsey, said the collaboration with CRDB Bank provides its over 135 million cardholders with a wide range of payment options when visiting Tanzania for tourism and business.

In his remarks, Mr Mongela expressed that the card usage launch would create a friendly and secure transaction environment for visitors, aligning with their accustomed mode of payment. This, in turn, builds trust and encourages them to return to the country, promoting increased tourism.