ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday stressed that shifting to digital transactions is crucial for improving transparency in Pakistan’s economy. He said digital payments are the need of the hour.
While chairing a weekly meeting on the digital and cashless economy, the PM highlighted the importance of making transactions easier for both citizens and businesses. He urged greater public awareness and wider adoption of digital systems.
He also directed all committees working on the cashless economy to collaborate closely with stakeholders. The goal, he said, is to produce practical and effective strategies that support a nationwide digital shift.
Officials informed the meeting that the State Bank of Pakistan is preparing a new plan to help traders transition smoothly to digital payments. A simplified package will also be introduced to attract small businesses to the system.
The government aims to boost the number of mobile app users for digital transactions from 95 million to 120 million. Additionally, the total digital payment volume is expected to rise from Rs 7.5 billion to Rs 12 billion. The Prime Minister, however, instructed that these targets be doubled.
Meanwhile, efforts are being made to expand Wi-Fi access across Islamabad. Key locations such as hospitals, schools, government offices, public parks, and metro bus lines are being prioritized to support a more connected, digital future.