IHG and American Express Expand Premium Travel Benefits in China - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced a partnership with American Express in mainland China, introducing new hotel loyalty benefits for premium credit card customers. The agreement, unveiled in Shanghai on 22 October 2026, enables eligible American Express Platinum Cardmembers to obtain complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status, giving them access to additional benefits across IHG's global portfolio of more than 7,000 hotels.

The initiative represents the first time IHG One Rewards has collaborated with an international card network on a status-matching programme in mainland China. It brings together two established customer loyalty systems, allowing qualifying cardholders to receive hotel recognition without first completing the usual requirements for achieving Platinum Elite status.

The partnership reflects the growing importance of loyalty programmes and personalised benefits in the premium travel market. Alongside the status match, American Express is introducing a limited-time cashback promotion at selected IHG hotels in China and several international destinations. For IHG, the agreement provides an additional channel to reach affluent Chinese travellers and encourage bookings across its luxury and premium brands.

Elite status and additional hotel benefits

Eligible American Express Platinum Cardmembers in mainland China can register for a complimentary upgrade to IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status, valid until 31 December 2027.

The benefits include a 60% bonus on qualifying points earned during hotel stays and a welcome amenity. Members may also receive room upgrades and late check-out, depending on availability at the individual property.

Cardholders who complete ten qualifying nights between 15 September 2026 and 31 December 2027 can extend their matched Platinum Elite status until 31 December 2028, subject to the programe's conditions.

Rita Jiang, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, Greater China, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said the agreement responds to changing expectations among travellers.

“As travel continues to evolve, consumers increasingly value recognition and meaningful benefits throughout their journeys.”

She added that the collaboration would bring the two membership programmes closer together while extending premium cardholder recognition into the hotel experience.

Cashback incentives at luxury hotels

The partnership also includes a promotional cashback offer running until 31 December 2026.

Eligible American Express Cardmembers in mainland China who register successfully and spend at least RMB 1,800 at participating IHG properties using their American Express Card can receive RMB 370 cashback.

Participating properties include hotels operating under Regent Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection and Kimpton Hotels, as well as selected InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in Greater China.

The promotion also extends to participating luxury hotels in international destinations, including Australia, Japan and Singapore. This international component makes the initiative relevant not only to domestic hotel demand but also to Chinese outbound travel.

Yamin Zhu, Chief Executive Officer of Amex (Shanghai) Bankcard Clearing and Settlement Company Limited, said the partnership forms part of the company's efforts to strengthen its Platinum Card offering across travel, dining and lifestyle services.

Loyalty partnerships gain importance in premium travel

IHG One Rewards now has more than 160 million members worldwide. By linking its loyalty programme with American Express cardholder benefits, the hotel group aims to broaden its access to premium customers in mainland China.

For the wider hospitality industry, the agreement illustrates how hotel companies and financial services providers are increasingly combining loyalty benefits to influence booking decisions and strengthen long-term customer relationships.

The collaboration may also help participating international hotels attract Chinese travellers who already hold eligible American Express cards and are seeking additional recognition when travelling abroad.

The status match and cashback promotion are subject to eligibility requirements and specific terms. Full details and registration information are available through the American Express China Mini Program.

Image Credit: © AI generated illustration using material courtesy of IHG