Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry in Canada:
The Code of Conduct supports transparency, fair business practices and choice for Canadian merchants. The Code was introduced in May 2010, by the Minister of Finance, and was enhanced in April 2015 to help ensure that merchants are able to benefit fully from the principles set out in the Code. American Express is fully committed to and supports the Code of Conduct and Commissioner’s Guidance.
The Code of Conduct provides guidance for Payment Card Network Operators (PCNOs), Acquirers and Card Issuers in Canada. Amex Bank of Canada (American Express) operates as a PCNO and an Acquirer in Canada. American Express also acts as an Issuer of American Express Cards in Canada.
Our Role as Acquirer
As an Acquirer, American Express provides merchant services, which includes processing American Express Card transactions, the delivery of statements and making payments, to merchants who have signed up to accept American Express Cards directly with American Express. If you are a merchant who obtains services directly from American Express and have questions about our services or pricing, please contact American Express at 1-800-268-9877.
Our role as PCNO
As a PCNO, American Express operates the American Express Network in Canada and facilitates the transmission of American Express Card transactions through the network.
OptBlue® Program
American Express has authorized certain third party Acquirers to contract and work with merchants to accept American Express Cards through a third party Acquiring program known as the OptBlue® Program. Under the OptBlue program, these third party Acquirers provide merchants with full merchant services, including processing American Express Card transactions, the delivery of statements, and making payments to merchants. If you are a merchant that obtains merchant services through a third party Acquirer, contact the Acquirer with whom you have signed your Merchant Agreement for information about their services and pricing.
