The e-commerce market in Japan is undergoing a major turning point. Mercari, one of the country’s e-commerce giants, has announced that it will introduce Bitcoin as a payment method on its platform from June 2024. This move represents a significant step forward for the adoption of crypto-currencies in mainstream commerce.
A giant step towards the adoption of Cryptocurrency
Founded in 2013, Mercari has quickly established itself as the platform of choice for buying and selling second-hand products, ranging from electronics and fashion to collectibles and household items. With its user-friendly interface and secure transaction system, it has won over more than 22 million active users a month, positioning itself as a major e-commerce player in Japan.
Mercari’s adoption of Bitcoin marks an important step in the acceptance of cryptocurrencies in online transactions. Prices will still be displayed in Japanese yen, but users will have the flexibility to pay in Bitcoin, the world’s most valuable cryptocurrency in terms of market capitalisation.
Technological innovation at the heart of Mercari
The integration of Bitcoin payments will be managed by Mercoin, Mercari’s Tokyo-based blockchain subsidiary, established in April 2021. Mercoin will not only facilitate Bitcoin payments but also offer unique wallet services, combining payments, remittance services, credit, crypto asset management, and much more.
Mercari’s announcement is a clear indicator of the evolution of the e-commerce market in Japan and the growing acceptance of Bitcoin in everyday business transactions. This initiative could serve as a catalyst for other companies, encouraging wider adoption of cryptocurrencies across various sectors.
