Lawson is set to conduct payment tests using JPYC stablecoin backed by the Japanese yen beginning in early August at one convenience store in Tokyo. According to the FNNews article, the firm decided to conduct the tests in the Takanawa Gateway City convenience store in Minato Ward. HashPort, the digital asset wallet platform, will offer its services in payment transactions. Also, managing customers’ balances during the pilot phase. Lawson referred to the program as the first payment system in Japan based on the stablecoin linked to the retail point-of-sale machine.
These factors will be considered for further expansions of the program in the future. Additionally, the intentions of the executives to determine whether or not the new payment system can increase checkout efficiency. Especially, during crisis.
JPYC Connects With Existing POS Systems Directly
The consumers participating in the pilot project will show their compatible mobile wallets through barcode codes when checking out. The store personnel will scan the barcodes asusual, and HashPort will update the balance in JPYC according to transaction data. The integrated system will keep a record of transaction time, amount spent, and products along with regular sales.
Lawson will consider all these aspects for further decisions regarding this payment system. JPYC was released in October 2025 as a yen-based stablecoin backed by yen deposits and bonds issued by the Japanese government. It has already been reported that JPYC did not charge any transaction fees when it was initially launched to promote regulated transactions. Some restaurants and dental clinics have accepted JPYC payments earlier.
Japan Enhances Stablecoin Payments Network
While Lawson’s trial takes place, Japan continues building a regulated stablecoin payments network for its financial industry. MUFG Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and Mizuho Bank intend to introduce stablecoin services based on yen in fiscal year 2026. These plans follow Financial Services Agency-sponsored blockchain trials on cross-border corporate payments via the Progmat platform.
Regulated stablecoin payments have also expanded from local issuers to foreign issuers. Ripple and SBI launched the USD-based RLUSD stablecoin service via SBI VC Trade with approval from the Financial Services Agency in June 2026. The case of Lawson shows the progress of stablecoin applications that go beyond the financial sphere into regular retail payments.
Highlighted Crypto News:
Bitwise Reports Third Consecutive Crypto Market Decline as Tokenized Assets Reach Record Highs
