Temu teams up with dLocal to simplify payments in 14 markets

Addressing payment challenges in emerging economies

Temu, a global e-commerce platform known for affordable products, has entered a strategic partnership with dLocal, a cross-border payment provider, to improve transaction processes in markets where traditional banking infrastructure remains limited. The collaboration will focus on implementing localized and secure payment solutions in regions such as Mexico, Colombia, and Uruguay, as well as several other countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Many of these markets face persistent barriers to online commerce, including high rates of unbanked populations and inadequate payment systems. According to data from the World Bank, an estimated 1.4 billion adults globally remain without access to formal banking. These limitations have a direct impact on digital commerce, often contributing to cart abandonment rates that exceed 70 percent in regions lacking familiar or trusted payment options.

Enhancing accessibility through tailored infrastructure

Through this partnership, dLocal aims to support Temu by integrating payment infrastructure that aligns with local consumer behaviors and preferences. The goal is to offer seamless checkout experiences using familiar local methods, such as bank transfers, e-wallets, or cash-based systems. This approach is expected to reduce friction at the point of sale, making it easier for consumers in these regions to complete their purchases.

“At dLocal, we’re proud to enable seamless payment experiences for Temu’s customers in emerging markets,” said Justin Goh, Head of APAC at dLocal. “By providing localized payment methods and frictionless cross-border solutions, we’re making shopping easier and more accessible for underserved consumers.”

A spokesperson for Temu echoed this perspective, noting the company’s mission to offer affordable quality products to a wider global audience. “By partnering with dLocal, we’re excited to extend these benefits to millions of customers in emerging markets,” the statement said.

Broader implications for digital inclusion

This collaboration reflects a growing trend among global platforms to localize services for high-growth but underserved regions. As e-commerce continues to expand, companies like Temu and dLocal are investing in infrastructure that supports digital inclusion. By improving access to reliable payment systems, they are not only opening new markets but also helping bridge the global digital divide.

The integration of dLocal’s “One dLocal” platform — which offers one API, one contract, and one unified system — simplifies operations for merchants while reducing the need to manage separate processors or local entities in each country. For Temu, this means faster deployment and more flexibility in adapting to local needs.

As global e-commerce evolves, partnerships that focus on tailored solutions for emerging markets may prove essential for reaching billions of potential new consumers.