Bangla QR transactions to be completely free: Finance Minister

Transactions through Bangla QR codes will be entirely free of charge as the government endeavours to expand digital payments and build a cashless economy, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury announced on Thursday, urging people, businesses and service providers nationwide to embrace the system.

Speaking at Banani Kitchen Market in Dhaka while inaugurating purchases through Bangla QR, the minister emphasised that the system would carry no additional fee or charge. He added that the initiative would draw people from all walks of life, including fuchka vendors, rickshaw pullers, roadside sellers and small traders, into the formal digital financial system. Moreover, users will be able to receive payments through QR codes linked to bank accounts or authorised mobile financial service accounts, thereby reducing the need to carry cash and rendering everyday transactions faster and more convenient. Although he acknowledged that initial technical difficulties might arise, he said the authorities were working to resolve them swiftly.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Bank has set the interchange reimbursement fee for Bangla QR transactions at zero from October 1 as part of its drive to broaden digital payments. Furthermore, the central bank has introduced incentives for eligible merchant transactions, whereas person-to-person Bangla QR transfers are expected to commence in November.

Read More: Legal action against Mishti if evidence emerges: Home Minister

Consequently, the government anticipates that wider adoption of this interoperable payment system will diminish reliance on cash and contribute to a more transparent and digitally integrated economy. Nevertheless, the success of the scheme will ultimately hinge on whether small traders and ordinary consumers embrace it with confidence.