Local Payment Methods Crucial for 94% of Online LATAM Shoppers

Almost all LATAM shoppers consider that accessible payment methods, such as Pix, eWallets, and cash-to-digital solutions, are “important” or “extremely important” for online purchases, while nearly 70% are unlikely to buy from sites that do not support payment methods.

The findings, based on a survey of over 1,000 consumers across Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico, were released this Tuesday in the 2025 LATAM Retail and Payments report by leading payments platform for emerging markets, dLocal.

Research findings indicate that alternative payment methods (APMs), including Pix, eWallets, and cash-to-digital solutions, are projected to overtake card payments in major markets by 2026. This trend is expected to continue, with forecasts predicting that APMs will account for 69% of global eCommerce transactions, totaling 360 billion by 2029.

Select Findings:

• LATAM consumers have overwhelmingly favorable opinions of Chinese brands [less than 2% view them negatively], but are far less brand loyal than their American counterparts
• 94% of LATAM shoppers labeled being able to pay with alternative payment methods as a non-negotiable
• Quality and affordability are the top considerations for LATAM consumers; delivery speed, often thought of as critical in the US, was a top consideration for less than 6%

“Payments are inherently local. Our research confirms that success in LATAM eCommerce depends on meeting consumers where they are—offering the payment options they trust and use every day,” said Carlos Menendez, COO of dLocal. “With our ‘One dLocal’ model, we simplify this complexity for global merchants, enabling seamless access to over 900 local payment methods across more than 50 markets.”

The report also explores the rise of Chinese eCommerce brands, the importance of quality and price, and the growing influence of young, digital-first consumers. As LATAM is projected to account for 65% of global economic growth by 2035, the opportunity for global brands has never been greater.

Access the full report and explore key findings here.