The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan, working with the Ministry of Finance, issued a notification urging the public to use digital payments for vehicle fueling and other day-to-day transactions as part of Bhutan’s transition toward a cash-lite digital economy, citing risks from counterfeit banknotes and fuel-related damage to currency. The Authority highlighted mobile banking applications, mobile wallets and iUPI Global QR codes as preferred channels, pointing to reduced risks from handling cash (including theft, loss, damage and counterfeit notes), faster and more convenient payments, and stronger oversight to help monitor and prevent fraud. Implementation will be phased: from September to December 2025 the focus is on promoting and encouraging digital payments, while a second phase post December 2025 may include a surcharge on cash transactions, subject to the outcomes of the first phase.
Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan 2025-09-01
Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan rolls out phased drive for digital payments and may levy a surcharge on cash transactions post December 2025
The Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan and the Ministry of Finance have issued a notification promoting digital payments for daily transactions to support Bhutan's shift to a cash-lite digital economy. The initiative highlights mobile banking, mobile wallets, and iUPI Global QR codes as preferred channels, citing benefits like reduced cash handling risks and enhanced fraud prevention. A phased implementation will occur from September to December 2025, with potential surcharges on cash transactions considered post-December 2025.