What are the preferred payment gateways in Mexico?

Mexico is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Latin America. However, the payment landscape is unique. To succeed, you cannot just accept credit cards; you need a mix of digital and cash-based solutions.

Here are the preferred payment gateways and methods in Mexico for 2026.

1. Mercado Pago

The undisputed king of Latin American fintech. Mercado Pago is not just a gateway; it's a complete ecosystem.

Why it's preferred: Massive user base (millions use their wallet app), fraud protection, and seamless integration with Mercado Libre.
Key Feature: Customers can pay with their wallet balance, cards, or even cash at convenience stores.

2. PayPal

A trusted global giant. While fees can be higher, the trust factor is unbeatable.

Why it's preferred: Mexican shoppers trust PayPal for security. It offers "Buyer Protection," which encourages users to buy from new or unknown stores.
Key Feature: One-touch checkout and interest-free months (Meses Sin Intereses) integration.

3. Stripe

The developer's favorite. Stripe has grown rapidly in Mexico due to its clean API and modern features.

Why it's preferred: Best-in-class technology, easy integration with Shopify/WooCommerce, and transparent pricing.
Key Feature: Supports OXXO payments (cash) alongside card payments in a single integration.

4. OXXO Pay (Cash Payments)

This is critical. Over 60% of Mexicans are unbanked or prefer cash. OXXO is a chain of convenience stores found on every corner.

How it works: The customer selects "OXXO Pay" at checkout, gets a barcode, goes to a store, and pays cash. The payment is confirmed instantly (with OXXO Pay) or within 24-48 hours (legacy methods).
Why it's preferred: It unlocks the massive market of people without credit cards.

5. Conekta

A Mexican gateway built specifically for the local market.

Why it's preferred: They pioneered cash payments for e-commerce. They understand local fraud patterns better than many global competitors.
Key Feature: robust support for SPEI (bank transfers) and OXXO cash payments.

6. Openpay (by BBVA)

Backed by one of Mexico's largest banks, Openpay offers a powerful solution for enterprises.

Why it's preferred: High transaction approval rates and the security backing of BBVA.
Key Feature: "Paynet" network allows cash payments at thousands of locations beyond just OXXO (like 7-Eleven, Farmacias del Ahorro).

7. Clip

Originally a physical card reader (POS), Clip has expanded into online payments.

Why it's preferred: Extremely strong brand recognition among small businesses and consumers.
Key Feature: "Remote Payments" allow you to send a payment link via WhatsApp or SMS easily.

8. Kueski Pay (Buy Now, Pay Later)

BNPL is booming in Mexico. Kueski Pay allows users to buy without a credit card and pay in bi-weekly installments.

Why it's preferred: It acts as a credit alternative for the unbanked, significantly boosting conversion rates and average order value.

9. BitPay / Crypto

Niche but growing. With high remittance flows, some tech-savvy businesses are adopting crypto payments.

Why it's preferred: Lower fees for international transactions and no chargebacks.

10. SPEI (Interbank Transfers)

While not a "gateway" itself, supporting SPEI is mandatory. It's the national real-time transfer system.

Why it's preferred: Instant, secure, and low cost. Many gateways (like Stripe and Conekta) automate SPEI reconciliation.

Summary

To win in Mexico, you need a "Hybrid Strategy."

Cards: Use Stripe or Mercado Pago for credit/debit cards.
Cash: You must offer OXXO Pay.
Trust: Add PayPal for credibility.
Credit: Consider Kueski Pay to boost sales.

What are the preferred payment gateways in Mexico?