Japan plans credit card ticketing for public transport by 2026

In Lagos, commuters are increasingly opting for the government-owned BRT buses and trains over the chaotic yellow 'Danfo' buses, which are notorious for their aggressive conductors. The introduction of a digital payment system, the Cowry card, has made public transportation more accessible and user-friendly in Lagos, allowing passengers to pay via card readers or QR codes. In Japan, Sumitomo Mitsui Card Co. plans to implement touch payments for public transportation by 2026, enabling both their credit card users and holders of other cards to bypass the need for physical transit cards. This initiative aims to ease travel for foreign tourists and streamline operations for transport providers. Meanwhile, London is exploring the integration of railcard discounts with contactless payments, potentially simplifying travel for young and senior commuters. These advancements reflect a broader trend towards enhancing public transport experiences through technology globally.