The mass introduction of the digital ruble will begin on September 1, 2026.

      July 15, 2025, 16:50

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      Economics The State Duma has adopted a bill according to which, starting September 1, 2026, the digital ruble will be used for trading and payment transactions by the largest banks and retail vendors in Russia, reports the TV channel "360." This innovation aims to develop the digital economy and improve the efficiency of cashless payments.

      In addition, the bill provides for banks to implement a universal QR code for digital ruble operations. This will simplify the cashless payment process for customers. The Central Bank of Russia has long advocated for the unification of QR codes to avoid confusion when paying via the Faster Payments System (FPS) and other banking services.

      First Deputy Chairman of the Central Bank Olga Skorobogatova noted that the new payment method will be accessible through the FPS. However, practice shows that the transition to QR codes from different banks has already caused inconveniences for customers due to difficulties in identifying the debit account. To address this issue, the Central Bank proposed creating a single system of universal QR codes that all financial institutions can connect to.

      It is important to note that mass adoption of the digital ruble will not be mandatory for banks, but its use by citizens will remain voluntary. This means people will be able to decide whether to use the digital ruble in their financial operations.

      Recall that on August 1, 2023, a law came into effect, according to which the list of subjects of the national payment system was supplemented by the operator of the digital ruble platform. This status will be assigned to the Russian Central Bank. The regulator will be responsible for organizing and ensuring the operation of the digital ruble platform.

      Last year, a pilot project with the digital ruble was launched in real transactions. Thirteen credit organizations participated in the testing. The mass introduction of the digital ruble was planned for 2025, after the completion of the pilot project.

      The digital ruble will become the third form of the national currency in Russia: now, there will be cash, cashless, and digital forms. It will also serve as another means of transfers and payments.

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