These governments are de-dollarising their economies and this is having a direct impact on the global financial market.
In the field of global trade, the dollar is losing power and now its exclusion even extends to supermarkets. Many of the world’s retail chains have begun to refuse US banknotes, forcing consumers to adapt to other methods of payment.
Driven by the de-dollarization of national economies, the rules of the financial game are being reconfigured. Restricting the US dollar is a response not only to changes in the monetary policy of certain countries, but also to the sovereignty of local currencies and digital payment systems.
The world is moving towards a more diversified economy, the exclusion of the greenback in supermarkets and other local retail outlets reflects a structural change that directly impacts consumers and tourists looking to make payments as easily as possible.
The measure seeks to reduce dependence on the dollar but also responds to government policies that limit the use of foreign currencies in everyday financial transactions, not necessarily greenbacks. This phenomenon is mainly observed in Europe and Asia.
Which countries do not accept dollars in supermarkets?
The majority of countries do not allow payment in currencies other than the national currency. However, in the face of the rise of tourism and gentrification, some nations have made exceptions in certain shops.
However, there are countries where the use of the dollar is prohibited in supermarkets and retail stores. Among the main ones are:
- Russia: due to economic sanctions, it has promoted the use of the ruble and other local currencies.
- Turkey: it has limited the circulation of dollars in local commerce, promoting the Turkish lira and digital payments.
- China: in several regions, supermarkets only accept yuan or electronic payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay.
- Belarus: encourages the use of the ruble and the yuan, restricting access to the dollar.
- Hungary: has reduced its dependence on the dollar in key financial transactions.
- Serbia: prioritizes trade in euros and rubles, leaving the US currency aside.
- Argentina: although there is no total ban, businesses apply unfavorable rates for payments in dollars.
- Venezuela: although the dollar circulates in the informal market, official supermarkets only accept bolívares.
- Cuba: has established strict regulations to avoid the use of the dollar in its economy.
- North Korea: prohibits the use of dollars in its financial system, promoting the local won.
Payment methods gaining ground
With the withdrawal of the dollar from daily transactions, other means of payment have gained prominence in supermarkets and convenience stores. Some of the most commonly used options include:
Local currencies
In most countries with dollar restrictions, the use of the national currency as the only valid option is encouraged.
Digital payments and electronic wallets
Platforms such as Alipay, WeChat Pay, Mercado Pago and PayPal have gained relevance in markets seeking to reduce the use of cash.
Cryptocurrencies
Some shops, especially in inflation-affected economies, have started to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies.
Debit and credit cards
Some regions have restricted card payments in dollars, forcing consumers to use accounts in local currency.
What impact does this measure have on consumers?
The elimination of the dollar in supermarkets generates significant changes in purchasing habits. Those who have dollars in cash must exchange them for local currency beforehand, which can result in exchange rate losses.
In addition, the rise of electronic and digital payments means that customers must adapt to new technologies and financial platforms. For supermarkets and shops, de-dollarization represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
While in some cases it can cause confusion among customers, it also drives the modernization of payment systems and the stability of local economies.
As more countries adopt this trend, the exclusion of the dollar in supermarkets could become a global norm. What once seemed unthinkable is now a reality: the greenback is losing its reign in everyday shopping, and consumers must prepare for a world where other currencies and technologies dominate commerce.
