The Central Bank of Russia published the first report from self-regulatory organisations on payment agents’ operations, showing that household payments made through these agents exceeded RUB 155 billion between January and March 2026. The market recorded more than 120 million transactions, with an average payment amount of RUB 1,290. Payment agents mainly handle cash payments for utility services, telecommunications, TV and internet services, and consumer goods. Utility payments dominated the market in the first quarter, accounting for nearly 90% of all transactions, while fines, state duties and telecommunications payments represented only a small share. The new reporting data is intended to support the central bank’s analysis of this market segment by region and improve its assessment of payment access across different types of consumer transactions.
Central Bank of Russia2026-06-11
Central Bank of Russia receives first payment agent market report showing more than RUB 155 billion in first quarter household payments
The Central Bank of Russia published first reporting data on payment agents, showing that they processed more than RUB 155 billion in household payments in the first quarter of 2026 across more than 120 million transactions. Utility payments accounted for nearly 90% of operations. The data will be used to assess regional market development and consumer access to payment services.