Card clearinghouse rules enter second public consultation
Banco de México opened a second public consultation on draft rules for card payment clearinghouses on August 27, 2026. The framework aims to boost interoperability and cut processing costs, with feedback accepted until September 24, 2026.
Interoperability to lower merchant fees
Banco de México is establishing binding criteria for interoperability between clearinghouses to ensure frictionless card payment processing and lower transaction costs.
Under the proposed rules, transactions must settle efficiently regardless of whether card issuers and merchant acquirers participate in different clearing entities.
The framework also creates open market conditions to encourage new entrants and innovative financial services.
Alongside efficiency gains, the central bank mandates the adoption of international best practices for risk management, information security, and data protection.
All clearinghouses will be subject to a transparent and robust governance framework designed to protect consumer interests.
A four-week window for public input
The draft regulation forms part of the central bank's statutory mandate to promote the sound development of the financial system and foster reliable payment infrastructure.
Banco de México aims to accelerate the broader adoption of card payments by creating a more transparent and dependable digital ecosystem.
Public stakeholders, industry participants, and interested parties can submit written comments on the draft provisions exclusively through the central bank's online portal until 18:00 Mexico City time on September 24, 2026.
Breaking clearing bottlenecks
Mandating interoperability directly tackles persistent clearing bottlenecks and elevated merchant fees.
Yet technical standards across rival networks risk stalling without enforceable implementation deadlines.
Real progress will depend on whether new fintech challengers gain genuine market access.