European Central Bank: The digital euro is targeted for issuance in 2029, with a pilot program starting in the second half of 2027

European Central Bank (ECB) Executive Board member Piero Cipollone stated that the digital euro pilot program will launch in the second half of 2027 and will last for 12 months, with 36 service providers participating. The pilot will test the technology and coordinate collaboration among service providers, merchants, central banks, infrastructure operators, and users.

Legislative negotiations related to the digital euro are ongoing between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the European Commission, and are expected to conclude within the year. If negotiations proceed smoothly, the European Central Bank aims to issue the digital euro by 2029.