ISLAMABAD, November 6, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has asked government departments to prepare a time-bound roadmap for a nationwide digital payments system, while stressing that reliable internet access and easier-to-use technology are essential to Pakistan’s cashless economy plans.
He issued the directions during a review meeting in Islamabad on Friday, according to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan. Officials were instructed to identify clear targets and address difficulties faced by people using digital payment services.
Raast QR payments and utility bills
The government plans to continue encouraging merchants and consumers to make payments through Raast QR codes. The prime minister also called for a public awareness campaign promoting QR-based payments for electricity and gas bills.
Ministries and government departments were directed to implement the digital payments initiative. The push is intended to make transactions easier to track and reduce reliance on paper-based payment methods, although access to connectivity and digital tools remains a practical challenge.
Government payment deadlines
Officials told the meeting that digitisation of payments at federal and provincial institutions was advancing, with most institutions expected to complete the transition by December 2026. That is a reported target, not confirmation that the change has already happened.
The briefing also said Benazir Income Support Programme payments were being distributed through digital wallets. Work is underway on options for making digital payments in places without reliable internet access.
Under the announced timetable, cheque payments through Asaan Assignment Accounts will stop from November 15, with payments moving to the Raast digital system from November 16. Relevant drawing and disbursing officers have reportedly received training.
What the transition means for users
For households and businesses, a wider digital payments network could mean more options for paying bills and receiving funds. Its success will depend on service reliability, fraud prevention, accessibility and the ability of people without smartphones or stable internet connections to participate.
The government’s latest directions establish priorities and deadlines, but do not mean Pakistan has already become a fully cashless economy.
