The Central Bank of Bolivia announced the launch of OpenBCB, a free, API-based tool intended to expand the use of QR electronic payments by enabling public and private institutions to digitise their collections and payment processing where budgetary or technological constraints have prevented automation. OpenBCB supports free generation of “QR BCB Bolivia” codes, real-time QR status checks, processing of payment orders, and payment notifications to strengthen tracking and identification of incoming payments. The central bank estimates the service could benefit more than 100,000 users and be used by around 30 public and/or private institutions nationwide, particularly serving dispersed peri-urban and rural populations; it also cites expected operational cost reductions and improved financial resource management for participating entities. The service is framed as part of broader payments infrastructure measures, including the enabling of digital channels, free processing of electronic transfers, and a single QR code standard across the financial system, and is referenced as being supported by Law No. 1670 and the central bank’s regulation on transient settlement accounts for public and private entities. Integration of OpenBCB with fintech companies through a direct connection to the Central Bank of Bolivia is planned to broaden its reach.
Central Bank of Bolivia 2025-10-08
Central Bank of Bolivia launches OpenBCB to provide free APIs for QR-based electronic collections and payments
The Central Bank of Bolivia has launched OpenBCB, a free API-based tool to enhance QR electronic payments, enabling institutions to digitize collections and payment processing. The initiative aims to benefit over 100,000 users and around 30 institutions, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas, while reducing costs and improving financial management. OpenBCB is part of broader payments infrastructure measures, supported by Law No. 1670, and plans integration with fintech companies to expand its reach.