Russia sets a deadline for the digital ruble to promote widespread adoption by major banks and retailers.

Gate News bot message, with the comprehensive adoption of Russia's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) digital ruble and the approaching deadline for the new proposal, the Russian retail payment industry is about to undergo a comprehensive reform. TASS reported on June 25 that the Central Bank of Russia has submitted a phased implementation plan to the State Duma, requiring banks and merchants to comply with digital ruble regulations starting from September 1, 2026.

Initially, the largest banks in the country must allow customers to conduct transactions using the digital ruble, and large retailers—those with annual revenues exceeding 120 million rubles (1.9 million USD) and who have accounts at these institutions—must also process payments using the digital ruble. According to the Central Bank of Russia, starting from September 1, trade companies that are clients of the largest banks and have revenues exceeding 120 million rubles (1.9 million USD) in the previous year must open their digital ruble infrastructure and pay for goods and services using the digital national currency.

The additional deadlines extend compliance obligations to other entities. Universal licensed banks and their merchant clients with an annual turnover exceeding 30 million rubles must integrate the digital ruble system by September 1, 2027. All other banks and sellers (excluding those with an annual turnover of less than 5 million rubles) must follow suit by September 1, 2028. The Central Bank of Russia noted that these timelines were established after consultations with various ministries, agencies, and industry participants, aimed at ensuring sufficient time for technological adjustments.

The launch of the Central Bank Digital Currency in Russia was originally scheduled for July 2025, but has been postponed to mid-2026 due to technical and regulatory challenges. The Central Bank of Russia stated that the reason for the delay is the need for further consultations with banks and to develop an economically viable model for customers.

The digital ruble will operate through a universal QR code system supported by the national payment card system. Banks must prepare for this QR code-based infrastructure by September 1, 2026, with a specific connectivity timeline determined by the Central Bank's board. While this signifies stricter regulation and commercial digitalization, cryptocurrency advocates warn that state-controlled digital currencies will diminish user autonomy and innovation compared to decentralized alternatives.