Digital payment adoption in Latin American transit

Efforts to integrate digital payments into public transportation systems across Latin America show varying levels of success and implementation. In Quito, Ecuador, research indicates that while existing users find electronic payments easy to use, nearly half of the surveyed population remains unaware of digital alternatives, with information gaps and mistrust hindering the transition from cash.

In contrast, other regions are advancing digital services. Argentina’s SUBE system has evolved into an interoperable platform supporting credit, debit, and digital wallets via QR codes. In Caracas, Venezuela, the Metro de Caracas has introduced digital tools for passengers to deactivate lost SUVE cards via a mobile application or web portal. Meanwhile, in Lima, Peru, the Authority for Urban Transport for Lima and Callao has launched a pilot program for the Metropolitano system, allowing QR code recharges through various digital wallets to reduce cash dependency and station queues.