Taipei Metro Introduces Contactless Credit Card Payments for Commuters

Taipei Metro has introduced contactless credit card and digital wallet payments across all stations, enabling faster, cashless travel for commuters and international visitors.

Taiwan-issued and international credit card payments, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, will be accepted at all Taipei Metro stations. Attending a press conference to unveil the new multi-payment program for the MRT system, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an stated that the adjustment was made to bring the area into line with global trends. Metro users will be able to touch a credit card or mobile wallet at fare gates. According to Taipei Metro, there will be less need to wait in line to purchase single-journey tickets or top off transit cards.

The initiative comes after QR code payments were introduced in January, enabling customers to board buses and MRT trains in Taipei and New Taipei City using major electronic payment platforms. Maggie Pao, the CEO of Taishin International Bank's Retail Banking Group, which has collaborated with Taipei Metro on the project, stated that the QR code payment system has enabled over a million rides in the last six months.

A major step toward seamless urban travel, Taipei Metro's acceptance of credit card and digital wallet payments makes public transit quicker, easier to use, and more in line with the demands of a generation that prioritizes technology.

According to the reports tracked by CIO Bulletin, digital wallet payments have become popular among young people, as evidenced by the fact that over 80% of users of the QR codes were 35 years of age or younger, Pao said at the press conference. The users of iPhones can activate "Express Transit" in their Apple Wallet, which enables them to tap their phones at gates to pass through without unlocking the device.

Advantages of the Multi-Payment System in Taipei Metro

• Faster Travel: At fare gates, travelers can quickly board by merely tapping a credit card or digital wallet.

• Increased Convenience: Removes the need to top off transport cards or buy single-journey tickets before traveling.

• Encourages Cashless Travel: Facilitates easy payments using contactless credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.