Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized that Pakistan’s transition to a cashless economy is crucial for sustainable economic growth. He stated that the country must align with global digital trends to strengthen its financial systems.
PM Shehbaz chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review the progress of cashless economy initiatives. Officials highlighted that bill payments for electricity and gas are now integrated with the Raast QR code system, allowing consumers to make digital payments instead of using cash.
Under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), one million digital wallets have been created. PM Shehbaz noted that these wallets will become fully operational by the end of the month, enabling direct digital transfers to beneficiaries in upcoming installments.
The Prime Minister was also informed that Islamabad’s government services mobile application has been linked to the Raast payment platform. Additionally, all new business licenses in the capital now support digital payments, while existing shops have been equipped to accept QR code transactions.
Licenses for new digital banks are being issued to expand nationwide financial access. Officials reported that 68% of Pakistan’s population is now financially included, reflecting major progress in digital finance adoption.
PM Shehbaz directed all ministries to further expand financial inclusion and ensure that cashless economy targets are met within the set timeframe. He highlighted that these reforms would improve governance and reduce corruption across the country.
Senior officials, including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad, FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, and representatives from NADRA, attended the meeting to discuss implementation strategies.
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The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan’s push toward a cashless economy will modernize financial systems, simplify transactions, and promote transparency for citizens and businesses alike.
