Brazil implements interoperability for food and meal vouchers

New federal regulations in Brazil will implement interoperability for food and meal vouchers starting in November. Under Decree No. 12.712/2025, establishments such as restaurants, bakeries, and supermarkets will be required to accept various benefit card brands through a single payment terminal.

This change aims to provide workers with greater freedom of choice, eliminating the need to seek specific merchants that accept their employer's chosen card brand. For merchants, the measure simplifies operations by removing the need to maintain multiple machines or contracts for different benefit providers, thereby reducing logistical and operational costs.

The decree also establishes financial limits to protect businesses: a cap of 3.6% on discount rates charged by acquirers, an interchange fee ceiling of 2%, and a requirement that payments be transferred to merchants within 15 calendar days. These rules apply to all companies administering these benefits, regardless of their affiliation with the Worker's Food Program (PAT).