BEM reveals that EMV usage currently stands at 60%, reaffirming its readiness to move towards the government's integrated ticketing system.

BEM reveals a 60% growth in EMV Contactless card users following the full launch of EMV technology on the Blue and Purple MRT lines. The company supports the government's unified ticketing policy and measures to reduce fares to 17-45 baht per trip. BEM is continuing its collaboration with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) and Krung Thai Bank to upgrade the system for higher standards and greater efficiency.

Dr. Sombat Kitjalak, Managing Director of Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited. BEM stated that since the full launch of EMV Contactless cards (credit/debit/prepaid and Mangmoom EMV) for travel on the Blue and Purple MRT lines on June 1st, there has been a 60% increase in EMV card usage compared to other payment methods, demonstrating positive user response.

Meanwhile, all automated fare collection gates at every station are compatible with EMV contactless cards, enhancing travel speed and convenience and promoting more efficient connectivity between the rail networks in the long term.

“BEM's full implementation of the EMV Contactless system is a crucial step in supporting the government's policy on integrated ticketing and a unified fare of 17-45 baht per trip, without additional initial fees for changing lines. This is expected to be implemented by the government on January 1, 2570, where passengers will be required to pay for fares only via EMV Contactless cards. BEM's readiness not only supports the concrete implementation of the integrated ticketing policy but also aligns with the government's policy of reducing the cost of living for citizens in terms of transportation.”

Furthermore, BEM has a key long-term growth driver from the upcoming opening of the East section of the Orange Line, expected to begin trial operations by the end of 2570. It is projected to accommodate up to 100,000 passengers per day initially, increasing to 300,000 passengers per day when the West section of the Orange Line opens in 2573, fully supporting the EMV Contactless system. In addition, the company has procured an additional 21 train sets for the Blue Line to accommodate the increased passenger volume from the future connection of the rail network.

Regarding the upgrading of EMV Contactless services, the company is currently collaborating with the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) and Krung Thai Bank, the system provider, to gather various limitations in order to improve the system to meet standards, efficiently meet passenger needs, and provide passengers with convenient and fast travel.