Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and three others plan to integrate QR payment systems

Central banks of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan plan to link their QR-code payment systems. The National Bank of Kazakhstan announced the plan.

On October 22-23, a regional meeting was held in Dushanbe with representatives of the national banks of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as well as the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. The event focused on developing national payment solutions and introducing standards for QR codes. Participants exchanged experience on payment platforms, instant payment systems, financial inclusion, cashless settlements and remote identification.

The National Bank of Kazakhstan presented its digital financial infrastructure, including a national payment system, open banking and a National Anti-Fraud Center. The delegation also shared its experience with the digital tenge project and the launch of an interbank mobile payment system. Participants agreed to work out a mechanism for interaction between QR payment platforms by the end of the year. Once integrated, citizens of the five countries will be able to pay for purchases and services via QR code through their bank apps while traveling.