Littlepay launches Mexico’s first open loop payments project in the historic Mexican city of Merida

• The State of Yucatan introduces Mexico’s first KFT (Known Fare Transactions) ticketing system powered by Littlepay. 
• The new, “Va y Ven” transit system, modernises automatic fare collection across the Agencia Transporte Yucatan’s buses and BRT’s (Bus Rapid Transit) network.
• Led by a Mexican System Integrator based in Yucatan, the project deploys Aurotransit validators and Littlepay connects into the local payment networks via the acquirer Banorte
• The upgraded automatic fare collection system supports 400,000 trips per day on 951 new buses, including 31 EV BRT vehicles (Bus Rapid Transit).

Since the end of April 2025, Littlepay, the Transit Payment specialist, has been quietly powering contactless payment services in Mérida, Mexico. This subtle yet significant rollout means that riders across the city can now simply tap and pay for their journeys using their bank card or a mobile wallet. 

Managed by the State of Yutacan, the new fare collection service, “Va y Ven” (“Come & Go”), renews the fare collection process across Agencia Transporte Yucatan’s 915 buses and BRT’s, with the opportunity to scale up to the entire Yucatan state across other modes, such as intercity vans, taxis and bikes. 

Switching on contactless payments

The successful launch required significant planning and preparation. Littlepay achieved a new domestic payments certification and secured a fast-track integration with its local acquiring partner, Banorte. This technical achievement underscores the commitment from both organizations to deliver modern transit services, according to Deputy General Manager of Business Development for Banorte, Jorge Zenteno:

“At Banorte, we are constantly working to expand our value offering. This initiative reflects our commitment to financial inclusion and sustainable mobility by providing technological solutions that respond to our customers’ needs.”

Mexico’s first KFT

The close collaboration between the partners selected for this project enabled the State of Yucatan to lead the way and deliver Mexico’s first KFT project. 

A Known Fare Transactions (KFT) is a transaction where the fare amount is decided at the time of boarding, giving riders complete transparency of fare costs. 

KFTs can be verified offline, making this type of payment framework ideal for vehicles that operate in areas with unstable connectivity, giving merchants the ability to provide contactless payments while managing financial risks through deny lists and debt recovery. 

This multi-modal, state-wide project elevates the passenger experience across the Agencia Transporte Yucatan’s network by simplifying the fare collection process for local travellers, as well as tourists unfamiliar with local ticketing systems. Now, they can simply tap their card or mobile wallet and enjoy the simplicity of paying with their bank card.

“We are thrilled to see our modular payment system successfully deployed here in Mérida. Littlepay played a key role in orchestrating a seamless launch, providing the flexible, modern backbone needed to unite all parties. This system isn’t just about paying for a bus; it’s about making Mérida a smarter, more accessible city where users can “come & go” (Va y Ven) by doing “tap-and-go!”—and we did it with unprecedented speed.”

Didier Muguet, Latam Business Developer Manager at Littlepay