KP to Become First Cashless Province of Pakistan Claims CM

Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, has ordered the province to become the first cashless province in the country.

The Chief Minister has communicated with the Chief Secretary of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to initiate the “Cashless Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Initiative,” a landmark step towards the province’s digital transformation.

The letter states that the Chief Minister has directed the implementation of this initiative, which aims to establish a mandatory digital payment system for all businesses. This will ensure efficient financial transactions while reducing reliance on cash, in line with the government’s strategy of digitalization and aligning with global best practices.

The initiative envisions universal digital payment adoption across the province through strategic partnerships with mobile wallet service providers and a structured enforcement mechanism led by district administrations.

This initiative will strengthen economic growth, enhance financial transparency, and position Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a leader in digital governance and financial inclusion. By expanding digital banking access, it will minimize fraud and corruption, improve tax compliance, and facilitate a business-friendly environment. Additionally, a centralized business database will enable targeted financial aid during crises while attracting foreign investment and fostering digital entrepreneurship.

To ensure the successful execution of this initiative, the Finance Department will take the lead role, including the following measures:

• Overseeing the selection of mobile wallet service providers through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) or Quality-Based Selection under KP PPRA Rules;
• Developing a digital registration portal by the mobile wallet service providers to onboard businesses, streamlining the transition to digital payments;
• Ensuring that district administrations spearhead a province-wide compliance drive, mandating the display of QR codes across all businesses, including public transport, shops, kiosks, and street vendors.

A comprehensive report outlining the objectives and implementation strategy is enclosed. The Chief Minister has directed measures for the implementation of this initiative through coordinated interdepartmental efforts to make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the first cashless province in the country.