Woofun AI reports that Japanese card issuer JCB will launch a pilot program allowing international tourists to pay with USDC stablecoins by the end of this year. The initial trial will take place at a single Tokyo store popular with foreign visitors, conducted in collaboration with a Circle subsidiary.

This initiative addresses high currency exchange costs and payment friction for Japan's millions of annual international visitors. By enabling direct USDC settlements, the pilot bypasses traditional conversion processes, potentially lowering fees for both tourists and merchants. The move aligns with Japan's 2023 Payment Services Act amendments recognizing fiat-backed stablecoins as digital money.