The Brazilian instant payment system, Pix, has started to be used in retail networks in Portugal 🇵🇹 and is already appearing as a consolidated alternative for grocery shopping. This news was confirmed after an agreement between Braza Bank in Brazil and Unicre, the operator of payment terminals in Portuguese retail.
Expansion in Portuguese commerce
The Continente network, one of the largest in the country, has begun accepting Pix in 18 stores located in Lisbon, Oeiras, and Cascais. This measure follows tests conducted in Braga, a city that is home to about 20,000 Brazilians. The company's plan is to extend acceptance to all units in Portuguese territory.
According to official data, the choice of Portugal is linked to the high concentration of Brazilian residents in the country, estimated at over 550,000 people — with approximately 350,000 just in the Lisbon region. The Portuguese Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, highlighted the relevance of this audience for local commercial activity.
Operation and costs
Pix abroad allows Brazilians to pay directly in reais, with automatic conversion to the local currency. The operation amount is displayed in reais and euros at the time of purchase. For the merchant, there is an operational fee of around 3%, in addition to IOF charges and exposure to exchange rate fluctuations.
Financial consultant Maurício Baum assesses that the tool can be more advantageous than using a credit card. With Pix, only one currency conversion occurs — from reais to euros — while credit cards often go through the dollar before reaching the final currency. Additionally, the consumer knows the exact amount at the moment of purchase, avoiding later adjustments on the bill.
Presence in other countries
Data from the Central Bank indicate that Pix is already accepted in other markets: the United States.
Wow! 🤩 PIX is invading the economy of Portugal! 🇵🇹 Now Brazilians can use the instant payment system to shop at retail. The Continente network already accepts PIX in several stores and plans to expand! 💸 A financial consultant claims that the tool can be more advantageous than a credit card. 🚀
Any questions, please inquire.
