SBP launches campaign to promote digitalisation of payments in cattle markets

Karachi (Web Desk): The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), in collaboration with 22 leading commercial banks, has launched a nationwide campaign to promote the digitalisation of payments in cattle markets across the country.

In a statement, the SBP said that the campaign, running from May 15 to June 6, 2025, is aimed at encouraging both buyers and sellers to adopt digital payment methods for the purchase of sacrificial animals and related services such as food, water, and parking facilities.

This initiative aligns with SBP’s broader strategic goal of expanding the use of digital payments nationwide.

The 2025 campaign builds on the momentum created by last year’s effort, during which over 4,000 merchants were onboarded and more than 13,000 digital transactions amounting to Rs560 million were recorded.

This year, the campaign has scaled up significantly and will cover 54 major cattle markets located in 21 districts, with an ambitious target of reaching 100,000 digital transactions within the campaign period.

In anticipation of higher transaction volumes, payment limits have been increased to accommodate high-value purchases commonly associated with Eid-ul-Azha livestock trading. Dedicated on-ground support teams, along with extensive digital outreach, will be deployed to raise awareness, onboard merchants, and assist customers in using QR codes, mobile wallets, and banking applications effectively.

As pert the SBP statement, the public and merchant response so far has been highly encouraging, reflecting a strong shift in favour of cashless solutions even in traditional, informal market environments.

The statement added that the media outlets have been urged to play an active role in supporting the “Go Cashless in Cattle Markets” campaign by spreading awareness about the benefits of digital transactions.