Mercari Makes a Move: Japan’s E-Commerce Giant Adds XRP Trading

In a significant move for mainstream crypto adoption in Japan, Mercari, the country’s largest e-commerce platform, has officially launched XRP trading for its users. The integration marks a major step in the convergence of digital assets and consumer platforms, potentially bringing crypto to millions of everyday shoppers.

Crypto Meets Commerce

Mercari’s decision to enable XRP trading follows its growing interest in digital finance and user demand for crypto functionality. The feature is being rolled out through Mercari’s payments subsidiary, Merpay, which recently acquired the necessary registration to operate as a crypto asset exchange under Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA).

This move allows users to buy, sell, and store XRP directly within the Mercari app, blending crypto seamlessly into the experience of one of Japan’s most-used marketplaces.

Why XRP?

The inclusion of XRP is notable given Ripple’s strong presence in Japan, particularly through its joint venture with SBI Holdings. XRP remains one of the most actively traded digital assets in the region and enjoys significant retail and institutional interest.

By integrating XRP first, Mercari is aligning with a crypto asset already familiar to many Japanese users and positioned as a fast, low-cost option for transactions.

Regulatory Clarity Opens Doors

Japan continues to lead globally in crypto regulation, offering a well-defined legal framework for exchanges and digital asset transactions. This clarity has enabled companies like Mercari to confidently step into the crypto space, knowing the rules of engagement.

The FSA’s oversight ensures consumer protection standards are upheld, including custody security, anti-money laundering controls, and transparent operations.

A Growing Trend

Mercari’s move reflects a broader trend among consumer platforms exploring crypto integration—not just as an investment tool, but as a core part of payment and financial ecosystems. As digital assets become more ingrained in daily life, platforms with large user bases are in a prime position to accelerate adoption.

While XRP is the first asset to launch, Mercari is expected to expand its crypto offerings in the coming months, possibly including additional tokens, payment features, or loyalty integration.

For now, the move represents a milestone moment for crypto in Japan, where one of the country’s most trusted consumer brands is bringing digital assets closer to the mainstream.