China’s digital currency electronic payment (DCEP), known as the digital RMB or e-CNY, continues to expand its footprint nationwide. A significant recent development is the expansion of the “Tap-to-Pay” pilot program across Shanghai’s entire metro network.
As of June 28, passengers can use various forms of digital RMB hardware wallets—including IC cards, SIM cards, and mobile Pay solutions—to quickly pass through subway gates with a simple tap. This enhancement significantly improves convenience for both domestic and international users.
Tap-to-Pay Function Now Covers All Shanghai Metro Lines
The new system supports cross-institution interoperability, meaning users can rely on digital RMB hardware wallets issued by any authorized operator. This broad compatibility is a key factor in promoting widespread adoption.
Foreign visitors arriving in Shanghai can obtain and top up digital RMB hardware wallets at self-service terminals located at ports, airports, high-speed rail stations, hotels, and other high-traffic locations. Since these wallets are not linked to the user’s identity, they offer enhanced privacy—a major advantage for short-term international travelers.
Shanghai’s metro system is one of the largest in the world, with a total operational length of 896 kilometers, 21 lines, and 517 stations. It handles more than 77% of the city’s public transportation trips daily.
Industry experts highlight that this upgrade greatly improves the travel experience for international visitors, enabling smoother and more efficient access to popular cultural, business, and sports destinations throughout the city.
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Why Hardware Wallets Are Gaining Popularity
Digital RMB hardware wallets are a core component of the e-CNY ecosystem. They are accessible, user-friendly, and suitable for a wide range of people—especially international tourists, elderly citizens, and students.
One standout feature is the ability to make payments even when the user’s phone is offline or out of battery. This functionality is particularly useful in environments like subway stations where connectivity may be unreliable.
Besides Shanghai, other cities including Qingdao, Suzhou, and Hainan have also introduced digital RMB hardware wallet acceptance across their public transportation networks.
Earlier Pilot on the Shanghai Maglev Line
The current expansion follows a successful limited pilot that began on June 14 on the Shanghai Maglev Line. That trial involved collaboration between Shanghai Metro, China UnionPay, Bank of Communications, international card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, as well as the Digital Currency Research Institute of the People’s Bank of China.
During the initial phase, passengers could use contactless bank cards, mobile Pay solutions, and digital RMB hardware wallets to pass through Maglev Line gates. The pilot used an “entry-deduction” model, where the fare is deducted immediately when the user taps in.
The rapid rollout—from the Maglev trial to full-network coverage in under a month—demonstrates the effectiveness and scalability of the technology.
👉 Learn how to use tap-to-pay transit systems
Broader Adoption Across Multiple Regions
Shanghai is not alone in promoting digital RMB applications. Several major provinces and cities are actively exploring new use cases for the digital currency.
In April, national and Shanghai municipal authorities jointly issued an action plan to improve cross-border financial services in Shanghai. The document encourages local digital RMB pilot banks to participate in the multi-CBDC bridge project and explore new application scenarios.
Around the same time, Shandong province announced plans to expand digital RMB use cases, including using the currency for consumer subsidies on home appliances, mobile phones, and automobiles.
Zhejiang province also introduced measures to promote “first-store economy” policies, encouraging the use of digital RMB in flagship retail stores and new product launches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a digital RMB hardware wallet?
A digital RMB hardware wallet is a physical device—such as a card, SIM, wearable, or smartphone with embedded secure element—that stores digital yuan and allows offline transactions.
Can international tourists use digital RMB in China?
Yes. International visitors can easily obtain anonymous hardware wallets at airports and other entry points without identity registration, making it both convenient and private.
Is the digital RMB the same as Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies?
No. The digital RMB is a central bank digital currency (CBDC) issued by the People’s Bank of China. It is a legal tender, unlike decentralized cryptocurrencies.
Which cities currently accept digital RMB in public transport?
As of now, Shanghai, Qingdao, Suzhou, and Hainan are among the regions that have implemented digital RMB payments in metro and bus systems.
Does the digital RMB work without internet connection?
Yes, certain forms of digital RMB hardware wallets support offline transactions, including those made via NFC “tap-to-pay” technology.
Are there transaction limits or security risks?
The digital RMB system includes built-in security controls and adjustable transaction limits to prevent fraud and ensure user protection.
Conclusion
The expansion of the digital RMB “Tap-to-Pay” pilot in Shanghai marks significant progress in the adoption of China’s digital currency. With support for multiple wallet types and offline functionality, the e-CNY is poised to become a staple in daily transactions—especially in urban public transport systems.
While challenges remain—including user habit formation and cross-border interoperability—the ongoing expansion of real-world applications demonstrates the growing maturity of the digital RMB ecosystem.