I had to keep withdrawing cash to use at these places because I knew my credit card would just not work. The places were my card was declined on union pay terminals were at a city center McDonald's, a large restaurant in Xuzhou, several restaurants in Shanghai, a travel company renting vehicles etc. Unless US credit card companies move to that format, Americans will be unable to use their credit cards anywhere other than hotels, who usually retain the old system. The Chip and pin is fast becoming default payment in most of Europe and Asia. I had real problems using my credit card (A fidelity Chip and Signature Visa, Capital one Master Card, A chase Master Card, A Coscto- American express card). I got back yesterday from my 2 week stay in Shanghai. I have been annual visitor to China for the last 8 years.
