National Bank of Pakistan has entered into a strategic partnership with ISTIQEME to expand QR based payment solutions and support the growth of Pakistan’s digital payments ecosystem. The collaboration is aimed at increasing the use of digital transactions across the country by improving merchant accessibility and strengthening infrastructure. By combining the extensive nationwide presence of National Bank of Pakistan with ISTIQEME’s digital enablement capabilities, the initiative seeks to accelerate adoption among businesses and consumers while contributing to broader financial digitisation efforts.
Under the agreement, ISTIQEME will provide end to end support for deploying QR payment infrastructure at merchant locations. This includes assisting with account opening, onboarding merchants, and enabling them to accept digital payments efficiently. The company will also conduct training sessions designed to help merchants understand the operational aspects of QR based transactions. In addition to technical support, awareness campaigns will be organised to encourage adoption among small and medium sized businesses that may still rely heavily on cash. These efforts are expected to help merchants integrate digital payments into their daily operations with minimal complexity.
The partnership also extends to operational assistance for National Bank of Pakistan branches. ISTIQEME will work closely with branch teams to streamline procedures for merchant onboarding and activation across multiple regions. This coordinated approach is intended to reduce onboarding timelines and ensure consistent implementation across locations. By supporting branch staff with guidance and structured processes, the initiative aims to improve efficiency while scaling deployment nationwide. The collaboration is positioned to enhance service delivery by creating a more structured pathway for merchants to join the digital payments ecosystem.
Officials from both organisations noted that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to expand financial inclusion and encourage a shift toward digital transactions. The collaboration supports the State Bank of Pakistan’s objectives of promoting accessible financial services and reducing reliance on cash. With QR based payments offering a low cost entry point for merchants, the partnership is expected to benefit businesses in urban and semi urban areas alike. The focus on training and awareness is also designed to build confidence among merchants who may be adopting digital tools for the first time, helping them understand transaction flows and reconciliation processes.
Senior leaders from National Bank of Pakistan and ISTIQEME formally announced the partnership during a ceremony held at National Bank of Pakistan’s regional office in Karachi. Representatives from both sides highlighted the importance of collaboration between financial institutions and technology enablers to expand digital payment acceptance. By leveraging operational support, merchant engagement, and infrastructure deployment, the initiative aims to contribute to the gradual development of a more inclusive and digitally connected payments environment across Pakistan.
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