Chinese mainland mandates cash acceptance, covering unmanned stores

Mainland authorities have introduced new rules requiring merchants and institutions not to refuse cash payments with immediate effect.

The mandate also covers unmanned stores.

In Baiyun District, Guangzhou, suspended service -- at this 24-hour unmanned convenience store.

Residents nearby say the store has long operated on a cashless basis -- accepting only electronic payments -- and has been shut for about two days.

Across the mainland, mobile payments have become second nature, with nearly 90 percent of the population using mobile payments -- the highest adoption rate worldwide.

While the digital wallet in one's phone can complete most purchases, concerns have emerged lately -- over some merchants' refusal to accept cash.

This Guangzhou citizen says many elderly people do not know how to use e-payment systems and are used to using cash.

This resident says small daily purchases such as grocery shopping, can be paid in cash while larger transactions are generally made electronically.

This woman says the new policy won't affect them as much, as they rarely use cash except during festivals such as giving cash red packets to children.

The People's Bank of China, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the State Administration of Financial Supervision jointly issued the regulations on the acceptance and services of renminbi cash.

Under the new rules, fee-charging entities and merchants that accept payments manually or provide face-to-face services must accept cash and prepare enough change to ensure smooth transactions.

Unmanned facilities are required to provide cash conversion methods, and must not charge additional fees.

Banks and financial institutions should handle cash deposits and withdrawals, and offer greater convenience for the elderly, the disabled and overseas visitors.

In the past two years, the central bank has penalised multiple cases of cash refusal, including postal and catering companies. Authorities note the new regulations also aim to safeguard the legal tender status of renminbi.

The public are encouraged to keep evidence and file complaints if they encounter violations.