Pix Emerges as the Dominant Payment Method Among Small Businesses in Pará and Northern Brazil

The Pix digital payment system has become the preferred method for small businesses in Pará and across Brazil's North region, according to recent studies. In Pará, 66% of payments to small businesses are made via Pix, exceeding the national average of 59%. This trend reflects broader regional adoption, with the North region leading at 68% average usage compared to other regions like the Northeast (61%) and Southeast (59%).

The rise of Pix aligns with ongoing digital modernization among small business owners, who are increasingly favoring instant, paperless financial transactions. Cash remains the second most used payment form at 9%, followed by boleto at 7%, while credit cards account for just 6% of payments. When small businesses pay partners and suppliers, 58% use Pix, signaling its role beyond customer-facing transactions.

Antonio Romero, manager of the Business Relationship Unit at Sebrae in Pará, highlighted Pix's contribution to sustainability and operational efficiency by eliminating traditional paper-based payment methods. The Central Bank of Brazil launched Pix over five years ago, offering instant transaction capabilities and robust fraud prevention measures under federal financial oversight.

This strong regional uptake of Pix is consistent within the Amazon area, with states like Amazonas at 74%, Roraima 71%, and Tocantins 69%. The increasing preference for digital payments illustrates the shifting landscape of small business commerce, driven by technology adoption and supported by government and industry initiatives.