‘Bangla QR’ becomes mandatory: one scan enables bank and mobile payments

PNN News Desk | Dhaka

A new chapter in Bangladesh’s digital payment system begins from Wednesday (July 1). According to Bangladesh Bank directives, the use of ‘Bangla QR’ has been made mandatory nationwide for business transactions.

With this system, customers can scan a single QR code to pay through banks or any mobile financial service (MFS).

The central bank says the initiative aims to make digital payments simpler, safer, and more inclusive.

Previously, different institutions used separate QR codes. Now a unified QR system allows all transactions through one code.

This enables payments in shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and small shops using one system.

Bangla QR is cost-effective, removing the need for expensive POS machines. A simple QR sticker is enough for merchants.

Security is also improved as users pay directly from their bank or mobile wallet apps, reducing fraud risks.

Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan said Bangla QR was already in use but has now become mandatory.

bKash corporate communications head Shamsuddin Haider Dalim said the system will expand digital payments and make transactions easier.

NRBC Bank official Abdul Kaiyum Khan said their system is fully ready, with over a crore taka transacted daily through Bangla QR.

Bangladesh Bank expects this system to strengthen interoperability and move the country toward a cashless economy.