The Central Bank of Afghanistan convened a meeting with the Afghanistan Banks Association and heads of commercial banks, chaired by First Deputy Governor Sediqullah Khalid, to discuss implementation of newly approved national guidelines for developing electronic payments. The agenda centred on transitioning from cash to electronic and digital transactions, expanding financial inclusion, simplifying banking processes, and directing bank investment toward public-benefit projects. Khalid called for effective and coordinated execution of the electronic payments strategy, framing a gradual shift away from cash as a step to modernise the financial system and strengthen transparency and economic efficiency. Commercial banks were urged to strengthen their systems, expand services, and ensure easy public access to electronic payment services, including through innovative digital solutions aimed at broadening inclusion. The meeting also emphasised bank investment in public-benefit projects, with Khalid urging a reduction in overseas banking-sector investments to create more room for domestic investment, alongside a call to streamline procedures to improve customer convenience.
Central Bank of Afghanistan 2026-01-05
Central Bank of Afghanistan urges commercial banks to implement electronic payments guidelines and increase domestic public-benefit investment
The Central Bank of Afghanistan, in a meeting with the Afghanistan Banks Association and commercial bank leaders, discussed implementing new national guidelines for electronic payments. The focus was on transitioning from cash to digital transactions, enhancing financial inclusion, and directing bank investments toward domestic public-benefit projects. First Deputy Governor Sediqullah Khalid emphasized the need for coordinated execution of the strategy to modernize the financial system and improve transparency and efficiency.