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From Africa to the world: The World Account for effortless cross-border payments

Clare Shi

Author

CEO of WorldFirst
While 1688.com has long been the go-to platform for domestic businesses sourcing from Chinese suppliers, international buyers struggled to purchase from it because’s

Key takeaways

If you’re doing research on how to source wholesale from 1688.com, you may have a few questions such as:

If you’re doing research on how to source wholesale from 1688.com, you may have a few questions such as:

If you’re doing research on how to source wholesale from 1688.com, you may have a few questions such as:

Contents

World Account by WorldFirst is a multi-currency account built to simplify global payments. You can receive and hold funds in 20+ currencies, send payments in 100+ currencies, and even manage expenses with the World Card that works anywhere Mastercard is accepted–all at competitive exchange rates. Whether you’re settling invoices with international suppliers, paying freelancers worldwide, or managing overseas expenses, WorldFirst keeps it simple, fast, and cost-effective for you.

Key features of the World Account for African businesses

Collect funds in 20+ currencies and make payments in 100+

Whether you’re a business expanding internationally or an individual managing cross-border transactions, our platform helps you break down currency barriers. With a World Account, you can receive payments in 20+ currencies, including G10 and other major currencies, without any collection fees. You can also collect payouts from global marketplaces such as Amazon, Shopify, and Etsy. Make payments in 100+ currencies or convert funds when needed–at competitive exchange rates—all at competitive exchange rates and from one secure platform.

Manage and track all your global business expenses

From your advertising expenses to online SaaS subscriptions, business travel, supplier payments, and shipping costs, you can manage all of your international and domestic business expenses using the World Account.

Competitive exchange rates

World Account offers highly competitive FX rates, helping you save on every international transaction. Exchange currencies transparently with real-time rates, no hidden fees, and support for 100+ currencies.

Instant payments to 1688 suppliers

With World Pay, you can make instant payments to your 1688 suppliers seamlessly—settle orders faster, avoid delays, and keep your supply chain running smoothly. Enjoy competitive FX rates, low transaction fees, and direct transfers in RMB, all while tracking payments in real-time for full visibility and control over your cross-border transactions.

Pay globally with the World Card

The World Card is a virtual debit card powered by Mastercard, accepted in over 150 currencies and supported wherever Mastercard is accepted. You can pay in 15 major currencies with zero foreign exchange fees, as long as you have sufficient balances in your account.

Easily issue up to 20 virtual cards for your team, set spending limits, and track transactions in real time. Since it’s fully integrated with your World Account, you can use collected funds directly for card purchases which can help you avoid unnecessary conversions and stay in control of your global business expenses.

How to open a World Account

Here are the steps to open a business bank account with WorldFirst

1. Gather all the important documents

Before getting started, make sure you have the following documents:

  • Your company’s basic information (including your company registration number, trading address and purpose for using a WorldFirst account)
  • A valid ID
  • Your mobile phone

2. Add the country or region of your business

Select the country or region where your business is registered using the dropdown list.

3. Verify your email address

Enter your email address and verify it by entering the code shared over email. Create a secure password for your account.

4. Verify your mobile number

Enter your mobile phone number and click ‘Send code.’ When prompted, enter the 6-digit verification code sent to your mobile phone number via SMS.

5. Provide information about your business

Enter your company registration number and other company details, including company name, type of business, and registered address.

6. Provide proof of identity

Select your ID’s country of issue and upload proof of ID.

7. Verify your identity

Take a photo of your ID and yourself

Get instant access to your account once verified—start sending and receiving funds right away.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute any advice. Before acting on the information you should consider whether it is appropriate for you, in light of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Whilst the information has been obtained from and is based upon multiple sources we believe to be reliable, we make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information. WorldFirst shall not be responsible for any losses or damages arising from your reliance of such information

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