HA NOI – The Bank for Investment and Development of Viet Nam began to issue BIDV-Manchester United debit and credit Visa cards yesterday with over credit cards being isued already.

It is planned that BIDV-MU debit cards will be released starting in July.

The co-operation will help the bank expand operations, boost its brandname and its market share, said BIDV deputy general director Tran Xuan Hoang.

It will also help promote the image of Viet Nam outside the country via the club's global fans, he said.

BIDV is targeting the football club's huge fan following in Viet Nam, estimated at 25 million, of which 2.4 million are judged to be ardent ones.

Cards holders will enjoy several benefits including discounts on purchases made at the MU website and reduction in the club's annual membership fee, among others. -- VNS