Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed relevant institutions to make digital payments more affordable than cash transactions, aiming to accelerate the shift toward a cashless economy. He stressed that if digital payments remain expensive, people will continue to rely on cash, undermining efforts to formalize financial systems.

To address this, he instructed that the cost of using platforms like Raast and digital wallets be reduced through structural reforms and public-private collaboration. Banks, telecom providers, and fintech firms are being engaged to revise transaction fees, making it easier and cheaper for the public to go digital.

The Prime Minister highlighted the success of digital wallet disbursements during relief efforts, where the majority of funds were distributed electronically. He emphasized replicating that efficiency across all government and public transactions.

A task force has been formed to ensure implementation. It will focus on policy coordination, regulatory adjustments, and cost restructuring. Weekly progress reports have been mandated to ensure swift results.

This directive is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on cash, expand the tax net, and increase transparency across economic activities in Pakistan. Making digital payments the default, low-cost choice is expected to bring more people into the formal economy and support financial inclusion.