“Since 1996 when American Express opened its global merchant network, our strategy has been to build upon American Express’ key assets and become the premium network of choice for third-party card issuers,” said Kula Kulendran, vice president, Asia-Pacific Region, American Express Global Network Services. “To date, American Express has established nearly 80 card-issuing partnership arrangements in close to 90 countries. We are pleased with our Chinatrust partnership, which underscores the success of our development strategy and commitment to the Taiwanese market.”

“Chinatrust is the leading player in Taiwan’s card market with an outstanding reputation for excellence in product innovation and marketing,” added Kulendran. “This is a win-win partnership that combines Chinatrust’s strong local brand with American Express’ global infrastructure and extensive experience.”

“Taiwan’s credit card market has grown by leaps and bounds in the last several years, and consumers are very receptive to new products,” said Steve Chou, Senior Executive Vice President, Consumer Banking Group, Chinatrust. “As Taiwan’s card market matures, market segmentation has become the trend, and the aspirations of consumers with high income and purchasing power have changed from searching for novelty to focusing on service quality and long-term relationships.”

“American Express is a recognized leader in the premium consumer market, and we look forward to working with a company whose global experience, reputation for innovative premium card products and exceptional services will also serve to enhance the value of our own brand,” emphasized Chou.

The powerful association with the American Express brand offers Chinatrust a wide range of unparalleled value propositions for its customers, including American Express’ global merchant network, premium concierge services, worldwide travel assistance and access to over 1700 American Express Travel Service Locations in more than 130 countries around the world.

About American Express
American Express Company is a diversified worldwide travel, financial services and network services company. Founded in 1850, it is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking.

About American Express Global Network Services
Since 1996, American Express Global Network Services (GNS) has been pursuing a strategy of opening its merchant network and card product portfolio to third-party issuers around the world. By leveraging its global infrastructure and the powerful appeal of the American Express brand, the Company aims to gain even broader reach for its network worldwide.