Coupa and SMCC Join Forces to Bring Virtual Cards to Japan
Virtual cards are revolutionising procurement by offering enhanced security, control and efficiency.
Unlike physical cards, they generate unique numbers for each transaction, reducing fraud risk and enabling automatic spending limits. Procurement teams gain real-time visibility into expenses with detailed transaction data that integrates seamlessly with accounting systems.
What's more, virtual cards eliminate manual processes like purchase orders and invoice matching for many transactions, accelerating approval workflows.
They also provide better vendor management through specific card assignments and spending controls. As remote work increases and digital payments become standard, virtual cards offer the flexibility and oversight that modern procurement teams need to operate effectively.
A recent study highlights that more than 90% of procurement leaders are using, planning to use or are interested in virtual cards—showcasing how digital payments are gaining momentum.
Now, Coupa is helping companies in Japan to harness the power of virtual cards.
Historic partnership announced at Coupa Inspire Japan
An important partnership involving Coupa and Sumitomo Mitsui Card Company (SMCC) was announced on stage at Coupa Inspire Japan.
Salvatore Lombardo, EVP, Chief Product & Technology Officer (CPTO) at Coupa, said: "I have the privilege of announcing a major milestone: Coupa and SMCC have launched virtual card capabilities in Japan—making SMCC the first local issuer of Coupa Pay virtual cards in Japanese Yen (JPY)."
As the pioneer in the issuance of the VISA Card in Japan and a leader in the domestic credit card industry, SMCC plays a major role as one of the strategic businesses of SMFG.
Leveraging a strong brand image and capabilities across a wide range of card-related services, the company provides settlement and financing services focused around providing credit services that meet customer needs. Through its credit card business operations, the company aims to actively contribute to the realisation of comfortable and affluent consumer lifestyles and make further dramatic advances as a leading brand in its industry sector.
AI-native payments drive digital transformation
Salvatore went on to say that this first-of-its-kind partnership will bring secure, embedded, AI-native payments to Japanese enterprises through Coupa's AP automation workflows.
"It's a meaningful step towards modernising B2B payments and accelerating digital transformation in the region," he added.
"With enriched data, real-time controls and AI-powered insights, finance teams can streamline supplier payments, reduce fraud, unlock working capital and gain full visibility and agility across every transaction.
"[I am] proud to see this vision come to life and even prouder to celebrate it with our incredible customers and partners. Thank you Tokyo for an incredible event."
