In a major move toward financial transparency and modernization, the Government of Punjab has issued fresh directives to promote digital payments across the province.
Under the new instructions, business transactions will gradually shift from cash to digital methods, marking a significant step toward a cashless economic system.
This policy aims to improve transparency, documentation, and convenience for both businesses and consumers.
QR Codes Now Mandatory for Shops and Businesses
According to the official notification:
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All business centers
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Retail shops
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Traders and merchants
must prominently display QR codes at their outlets.
These QR codes will allow customers to:
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Pay digitally via mobile apps
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Transfer money instantly
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Avoid carrying physical cash
The government is encouraging the use of Pakistan’s instant payment infrastructure, including the Raast system, to simplify transactions.
Deputy Commissioners Given Implementation Authority
The Punjab government has directed all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across districts to:
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Ensure compliance with digital payment instructions
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Monitor business adoption
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Facilitate awareness and enforcement
This indicates that implementation will not remain voluntary for long and may be actively monitored at district level.
Petrol Pumps Under Immediate Digital Payment Order
Special instructions have been issued for petrol pumps.
Because fuel transactions are:
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High-volume
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Time-sensitive
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Frequently cash-based
The government has made digital payments mandatory at petrol stations across Punjab.
Petrol pumps must:
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Install QR codes
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Enable mobile-based payments
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Ensure smooth digital transaction facilities
Additionally, petrol pump license issuance has been linked to online booking and digital compliance requirements.
Why Is Punjab Moving Toward Cashless Payments?
The shift toward digital payments is expected to:
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Improve financial transparency
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Reduce undocumented transactions
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Strengthen tax documentation
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Promote accountability
A cashless system also makes transactions faster and more secure for consumers.
For the government, it enhances financial monitoring and economic data tracking.
What This Means for Businesses and Consumers
For businesses:
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They must adopt digital payment systems
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Ensure QR code visibility
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Possibly upgrade POS infrastructure
For consumers:
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More convenience
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Reduced need to carry cash
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Faster transactions at shops and petrol pumps
However, small traders in rural areas may need time and technical support to fully adapt.
