Where is American Express Accepted?

American Express, a brand synonymous with premium credit cards, offers cardholders a range of exclusive benefits. However, its acceptance varies among local merchants and is influenced by fees, business preferences, and Amex’s relatively small market share compared to competitors Visa and Mastercard.

If you have an American Express credit card, knowing where and how you can use it in Singapore is key to maximising your card's potential and ensuring you can get the rewards you deserve.

» MORE: Visa, Mastercard, or Amex: which credit card is better for travel?

Despite the ‘American’ in its name, historically, was American Express accepted everywhere, even in the US? The answer is no.

For years, Amex acceptance lagged behind Visa and Mastercard and even market-specific companies like Discover in the US. This disparity meant that cardholders often faced the phrase, "Sorry, we don't take Amex.” 

This was primarily due to higher merchant fees, or “swipe fees.

These swipe fees or interchange fees, charged to merchants for processing transactions, were notably higher for Amex compared to its competitors. Interchange fees typically make up 1-3% of the transaction and can vary based on factors such as card type, merchant category codes, and the value of the transaction. In Amex’s case, having higher interchange fees impacted small businesses that were already running thin profit margins.

Consequently, many smaller businesses, especially in Singapore’s vibrant hawker and local retail scene, were reluctant to accept American Express over options with lower interchange fees (e.g. Visa, Mastercard) or alternative payment methods (e.g. PayNow, PayLah!).

» MORE: Credit cards 101: how does a credit card work?

However, the credit card landscape is changing. Amex has forged partnerships with payment processors through its OptBlue programme, making it more competitive and attractive for smaller businesses to accept Amex payments without it eating into their profits.

Integration with mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay has further expanded acceptance, especially in Singapore where cashless and digital payments are increasingly common in everyday life. Online payment platforms like Square and Paypal also increasingly accept Amex cards, upping the convenience factor for cardholders. And Amex also offers attractive promotions and incentives to encourage both merchants and cardholders, boosting usage further.

Amex’s global strategy to increase acceptance is paying off, with significant growth in merchant adoption.

But is Amex accepted everywhere now? No, not quite yet, though acceptance is improving.

In Singapore, major retailers, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms are increasingly accepting of the credit card provider. For example, many restaurants on platforms like Deliveroo and GrabFood, and major retailers like NTUC FairPrice and Courts, now readily accept Amex payments alongside Visa, Mastercard, and digital e-wallets. This offers plenty more options for cardholders who want to chalk up points, cashback, or rewards on their Amex cards.

» MORE: Best Amex credit cards in Singapore in 2025

Despite improvements, Amex acceptance still faces challenges. For one, many hawker stalls and small, local retailers in Singapore may still not accept American Express due to fee considerations. Some government transactions might not support Amex payments either, and even internationally, Amex acceptance still lags behind Visa and Mastercard in some regions.

» MORE: Find the best credit cards for overseas spending

While progress has been made, the future of Amex acceptance in Singapore still hinges largely on digital payment trends. As digital payment solutions and mobile wallets become more prevalent, Amex’s integration with mobile wallets and online platforms will likely expand. Furthermore, regulatory changes and market shifts could influence merchant adoption especially if Amex adjusts its fee structures to remain competitive and encourage wider acceptance. 

» MORE: Mastercard vs Visa vs Amex: choosing between the three major credit card companies

Disclaimer: All information regarding credit card acceptance is for informational purposes and accurate as of 24 Mar 2025. Merchant acceptance can change, and it is always advised to check directly with the merchant.