PM seeks roadmap for ‘100pc’ digital payments system, stresses countrywide internet access

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed officials to develop a detailed plan with specific deadlines for implementing a nationwide digital payment system. This directive emerged from a high-level meeting in Islamabad aimed at boosting a cashless economy, the Prime Minister's Office announced. PM Shehbaz emphasized the need to swiftly address user issues in the digital payment system and stressed that ensuring internet access and technology availability for everyone in the country is crucial for promoting a cashless society.

The premier highlighted that the government has made significant strides in this direction, citing the success of the Raast QR code payment scheme. He directed the ongoing initiative to persist under government support, urging ministries and institutions to fully implement the cashless economy strategy. The PM also directed the launch of a media campaign to encourage consumers to use QR codes on utility bills for payments, including electricity and gas bills.

Progress in digitizing government payments was reported, with most institutions expected to be fully digital by December 2026. Additionally, all payments under the Benazir Income Support Programme are now made through digital wallets. Work is underway to introduce a modern digital payment system in areas lacking internet access, and infrastructure for countrywide internet provision is progressing swiftly.

The government announced that cheque-based payments through Asaan Assignment Account will cease from November 15, to be replaced by the Raast digital system across the nation. Drawing and dispersing officers have already been trained for this transition. The federal government has been actively strengthening its financial system through reforms in taxation, enhancing the efficiency of the Federal Board of Revenue, promoting a cashless economy, and utilizing modern technology.

The prime minister has repeatedly stressed the importance of implementing digital transaction systems nationwide to bring transparency to the economy. In June of the previous year, a high-level committee was formed for this purpose, and in July, the government directed the digitization of all overseas remittances as part of this initiative.