Cannes, the world-renowned host of the international film festival, is set to welcome cryptocurrency payments citywide by this summer, with support from local officials and Web3 firm Lunu Pay.
The move aims to modernise the city’s economy and attract high-spending tourists. Cannes now joins a growing list of cities embracing digital assets for everyday transactions.
By offering digital payment options, local businesses hope to make transactions smoother for clients with high spending power.
High Adoption Goals
Artem Shaginyan, founder of Web3 payment firm Lunu Pay, said that the Cannes city council wants 90% of merchants to accept crypto. He told Cointelegraph that this push shows Web3 payments are moving into the real world.
When a cultural hub like Cannes adopts crypto widely, it proves the technology can work in everyday shops and restaurants, not just on the internet.
Training for Business Owners
In February, Mayor David Lisnard launched training sessions for local shopkeepers and professionals. These workshops teach how to handle cryptocurrency transactions and safeguard against fraud.
By equipping merchants with the right skills, the city hopes to speed up crypto adoption and ensure a smooth roll‑out.
Global Trends in Public Crypto Use
Cannes is not alone in this shift. Last December, Lugano in Switzerland began letting residents pay taxes and public fees in Bitcoin and stablecoins. Lugano aims to become a top global crypto hub by integrating digital assets into its public services.
In the United States, Colorado’s governor ordered the tax authority to accept crypto payments in September 2022. That policy supports Colorado’s broader plan to build blockchain into its infrastructure.
What Does This Mean for Cannes?
The move signals that governments see digital currencies as a way to stay competitive. By welcoming crypto, Cannes joins other forward‑thinking cities and states embracing blockchain technology.
This change could boost tourism and spending, as festival‑goers find it easy to pay with digital coins. It also positions Cannes as a leader in combining culture with cutting‑edge finance.
As summer approaches, Cannes will test whether large‑scale crypto payments can work in a busy tourist spot. Success here could inspire other cities to follow suit. For visitors, the ability to use cryptocurrency may make Cannes even more attractive.
For merchants, it offers new growth opportunities and access to a tech‑savvy clientele. The outcome may shape how and where crypto payments spread next.
Also Read: Circle Set To Debut New Crypto Payments Via Cross-Border Remittances