Islamabad, November 11, 2025 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s ambitious push to reduce cash dependence in Pakistan’s economy faces major challenges, with fewer than 700,000 retailers currently connected to digital payment systems, according to official figures.
Retailers — who account for the bulk of cash transactions nationwide — have been slow to embrace digital payment solutions. As of September, only around 39,000 retailers in Islamabad had adopted digital modes, with similar gaps observed in other regions, The Express Tribune reported.
The government has set a goal to link 2 million merchants to digital payment platforms by June 2026, but officials admit that resistance from the trading community and limited digital infrastructure may delay progress.
During a recent briefing, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed that transitioning to a cashless economy is vital for Pakistan’s long-term economic stability and financial transparency. He instructed authorities to expand awareness campaigns in rural areas, aiming to phase out traditional cash transactions and accelerate digital financial inclusion nationwide.
