Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Qatar’s card payment transactions totaled QR11.59 billion in April 2025, driven by strong growth in PoS and e-commerce. The Fawran instant payment system and mobile wallets also contributed significantly, supporting Qatar’s expanding digital economy and advancing a secure, efficient, and inclusive digital payment ecosystem.
Jordan Armed Forces and Orange Jordan reissue “Comrades-in-Arms” Visa discount card linked to Orange Money wallet, offering military personnel free access to digital payments and purchase discounts.
Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce sector saw a 73.4% year-on-year increase in MADA card transactions in March 2025, totaling SR27.55 billion ($7.34 billion). This surge is driven by the widespread adoption of MADA cards, government initiatives, and improved consumer trust, marking significant growth in the Kingdom’s digital payment ecosystem.
Fonepay hosted the 21st Asian Payment Network Forum in Kathmandu, where delegates from 14 countries discussed cross-border payment initiatives and digital financial cooperation. The event featured high-level meetings, the APN AGM, and panel discussions on fraud risk, regional integration, and regulatory alignment, highlighting the need for secure digital payment systems.
Bangladesh’s e-commerce sector is growing rapidly, but cash reliance remains a challenge. Efforts to transition to digital payments are underway, with initiatives to improve consumer confidence, simplify merchant onboarding, and enhance mobile payment solutions. As infrastructure improves, the sector could significantly contribute to the country’s economy and global integration.
Maroc Telecom has partnered with Visa to enhance digital payments and financial inclusion in Morocco and across Africa. The collaboration integrates Visa services with MT Cash, Maroc Telecom’s mobile money solution, aiming to expand digital financial services and support Africa’s digital transformation.
VISA’s expansion in Pakistan, including office growth and partnerships with 1-Link and PayPak, has been recognized for enhancing financial inclusion and digital payments. Finance Minister Aurangzeb praised VISA’s role in accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation and assured the government’s support in resolving operational challenges to strengthen the payment ecosystem.
Visa has made strategic investments in Tunisian fintech Konnect and Moroccan startup PayTic, enhancing its commitment to Africa’s fintech ecosystem. These investments are part of Visa’s ongoing USD 1B initiative, empowering startups with funding and mentorship. Konnect offers instant payments via shareable links, while PayTic provides compliance tools for financial institutions.
Maroc Telecom has partnered with Visa to integrate Visa’s payment services into MT Cash, its Mobile Money solution. This collaboration aims to enhance financial inclusion and expand digital financial services across Morocco and Africa. The partnership will help accelerate digital payments, targeting underserved populations and boosting e-commerce growth.
Al Ansari Exchange has extended its strategic partnership with Visa to further enhance digital payments in the UAE. The collaboration aims to drive innovation, improve customer experiences, and expand digital payment solutions. The partnership has already led to growth in prepaid cards, fraud mitigation, and financial literacy initiatives.