Pakistan’s Economy Going Digital – PM Shehbaz Sharif Accelerates Shift to Cashless Future

Shehbaz Sharif Vows to Accelerate Pakistan’s Transition to a Cashless Economy

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fast-tracking Pakistan’s shift towards a cashless and digital economy, emphasizing that the digitalisation of financial transactions is a top priority.

While presiding over a high-level meeting on the Raast digital payment system in Islamabad, the premier instructed provincial chief secretaries to extend full cooperation with the federal government in taking Raast’s services to the district level.

The prime minister expressed satisfaction over the progress made so far, noting that the adoption of digital financial systems will bring greater transparency, efficiency, and accessibility to the economy.

During the briefing, it was revealed that Pakistan plans to establish a comprehensive digital public infrastructure. This system will issue digital IDs for all citizens by integrating national identity cards, biometrics, and mobile phone numbers—ensuring secure, swift, and reliable payment methods.

Officials further informed the meeting that provincial administrations have made notable strides in linking government-to-public (G2P) and public-to-government (P2G) transactions with the Raast platform.

Additionally, it was highlighted that federal development agencies have already provided the right of way for expanding fiber optic connectivity. Talks are also underway with Pakistan Railways and the National Highway Authority (NHA) to broaden the country’s digital infrastructure and enhance connectivity.