Pakistan PM Mandates Roadmap for Full Digital Payment Integration
Government aims for 100% cashless economy through Raast QR systems and nationwide internet.
1Mandate for Digital Transition
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered officials to develop a time-bound roadmap for achieving a 100 percent digital payment system. During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, he emphasized that transitioning to a cashless economy remains a top government priority. The directive aims to resolve current user issues while ensuring nationwide technology access.
2Raast QR System Expansion
The government is actively promoting the Raast QR code system to facilitate seamless transactions between consumers and merchants. The Prime Minister instructed that this scheme continue under state patronage to boost digital adoption. Authorities are also launching a media campaign to encourage utility bill payments via QR codes printed on physical invoices.
3Institutional Digitization Timeline
Progress on digitizing payments across federal and provincial government institutions is currently underway. According to official briefings, most government bodies are expected to complete their transition to fully digital payment systems by December 2026. Currently, 100 percent of payments under the Benazir Income Support Programme are already processed through digital wallets.
4Infrastructure and Connectivity Challenges
Recognizing that digital payments require reliable connectivity, the government is accelerating efforts to provide internet access across the entire country. For regions currently lacking signal, officials are working to introduce modern digital payment systems that function despite infrastructure gaps. Expanding internet coverage is viewed as a fundamental prerequisite for the national plan.
5Phasing Out Traditional Methods
A significant shift in government operations begins on November 15, when cheque-based payments through the Asaan Assignment Account will be officially discontinued. These transactions will transition to the Raast digital system nationwide. Drawing and disbursing officers have already completed the necessary training to manage this shift away from traditional paper-based financial instruments.
6Economic Transparency Goals
The federal government views the shift toward digital transactions as a vital mechanism for increasing transparency within the national economy. These efforts are part of broader financial reforms, including increasing the efficiency of the Federal Board of Revenue. By reducing cash dependency, the administration aims to strengthen the overall financial system and tax compliance.
7Remittances and Previous Initiatives
This latest directive builds upon a series of strategic moves initiated by the Prime Minister since June last year. In July, the government specifically ordered that all remittances from abroad be fully digitized. These cumulative steps reflect a sustained policy focus on integrating modern technology into the country's core financial and economic frameworks.
8Strategic Outlook and Implementation
The success of this ambitious digital roadmap depends on the rapid deployment of internet infrastructure and consistent institutional compliance. By setting clear, time-bound targets, the government seeks to move beyond pilot programs toward a comprehensive national standard. Observers should monitor the December 2026 deadline to gauge the actual pace of institutional adoption.
Original article: Dawn — Pakistan PM Mandates Roadmap for Full Digital Payment Integration