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

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities on Friday to create a clear roadmap and set time-bound targets for establishing a 100 percent digital payments system in Pakistan. The directive came during a high-level meeting chaired by the premier in Islamabad, according to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Shehbaz emphasized the need to resolve user issues in the digital payments system immediately and stressed that internet access and technology availability for the public must be ensured to promote a cashless economy.

He praised the efforts of the Ministry of Finance and other relevant institutions in promoting a cashless economy, specifically commending the success of the Raast QR code scheme for digital payments between consumers and merchants. The PM instructed the continuation of this scheme under government support, and directed the launch of a media campaign to encourage electricity and gas consumers to make payments through QR codes printed on utility bills.

He also ordered all ministries and government institutions to fully implement the cashless economy plan. The briefing on ongoing measures for promoting a cashless economy revealed that digitization of payments in all federal and provincial government institutions was progressing rapidly, with most institutions expected to be fully digitized by December 2026.

Additionally, 100 percent of payments under the Benazir Income Support Programme are being made through digital wallets. The meeting was informed that efforts are underway to introduce a modern digital payment system in areas without internet access, and that cheque-based payments through Asaan Assignment Account will be discontinued on November 15, to be replaced by the Raast digital system across the country.

The federal government has been active in strengthening the country's financial system through tax reforms, improving the Federal Board of Revenue's efficiency, promoting a cashless economy, and utilizing modern technology. The PM has repeatedly emphasized the importance of implementing digital transaction systems across the country to bring transparency to the economy.

In June of last year, Shehbaz formed a high-level committee, and in July, he directed the full digitization of remittances from abroad as part of the initiative.