New Bill Aims to Ban Surcharges for Credit or Debit Card Payments

The Chamber of Deputies in Mexico recently passed amendments to the Federal Consumer Protection Law, targeting businesses that impose fees on customers using credit or debit cards. The amendment aims to deter practices where businesses add surcharges, often labeled as “commissions”, on electronic payments, which can reach up to 5 percent of the purchase price.

With strong support from 446 votes, the approved amendment prohibits merchants from imposing additional charges on customers who opt for electronic payment methods. Violators of this regulation face fines ranging from 701.15 to 2.243 million pesos.

Deputy René Figueroa Reyes (PAN) highlighted the necessity of the measure in alleviating financial burdens on households and eliminating deceptive practices by some businesses that suggest electronic payments are more costly. Figueroa emphasized the importance of ensuring consumers are not burdened with extra fees for card transactions, stating that the regulation will promote fair access to financial services and enhance broader financial inclusion.

Deputy Maribel Martínez Ruiz (PT) stressed the reform’s objective to combat consumer exploitation and called for consumer protection agencies to streamline complaint procedures. She urged the Chamber of Deputies to assess the enforcement mechanisms available to ensure effective sanctions against abusive practices.

Similarly, Representative Susana Cano (Morena) emphasized the significance of prohibiting card payment fees to support family finances, reflecting the increasing reliance on electronic payments in commerce.

According to the National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services (Condusef), some businesses impose commissions or surcharges ranging from 3 to 5% on card payments. Condusef highlighted that such practices violate agreements between businesses and banks, as contracts for point-of-sale terminals explicitly state that service charges should not affect the cost of goods or services.

The commission emphasized that businesses benefit more from point-of-sale terminals than the associated costs, making it unjustifiable to transfer these costs to consumers.

The approved amendment now awaits further consideration in the Senate. https://banderasnews.com/

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