The Duma's project to integrate the digital ruble into the Moscow metro

Russia is undertaking a major transformation of its public payments. Following a legislative mandate from the Duma in 2023, the Russian government plans to gradually deploy the digital ruble within urban transportation infrastructure, with Moscow serving as a testing ground for this transition.

A legislative mandate accelerating the adoption of digital payments

The project stems from a Duma decision requiring the phased adoption of payments in digital rubles, scheduled to take effect in the second half of 2026. This legislative measure marks a significant step in the adoption of central bank digital currencies in Russia.

Expanding the Moscow metro as a focal point for the transition

By 2028, Moscow’s underground transportation system is set to undergo substantial modernization. The expansion will include the addition of 13 new stations and 27 kilometers of new lines. This network growth will enable users to recharge their transit cards directly via the digital ruble, turning the metro into a technological showcase for digital payment adoption.

A tight schedule for implementation

With the rollout expected in less than a year, authorities must accelerate deployment. The convergence of the Duma’s mandate and the metro infrastructure projects offers Moscow the opportunity to become a model for integrating digital currency into essential public services by 2028.