In a major move towards modernizing its financial ecosystem, Uzbekistan is set to introduce popular international online payment systems including Apple Pay, PayPal, Google Pay, and others by 2024. This initiative aims to enhance convenience for both local consumers and international tourists, making digital payments easier and more accessible across the country.
The Ministry of Digital Technologies, in partnership with the Central Bank and the Tourism Committee, has been tasked with facilitating negotiations to bring these services to Uzbekistan’s payment infrastructure. The introduction of these platforms will streamline payments in both online and physical transactions, benefitting businesses and tourists alike.
Here’s a look at the payment systems being introduced:
Apple Pay
Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service by Apple Inc., enabling users to make payments in person, via iOS apps, and on the web. It allows users to securely store credit or debit card details and make payments through contactless terminals or online. Currently, Apple Pay is available in Kazakhstan, but not yet in other Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan, which plans to launch it by 2024.
PayPal
PayPal is a widely used online payment system that allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money electronically. It offers secure transactions for online shopping, money transfers, and in-store payments via the PayPal app or linked debit/credit cards. In Central Asia, PayPal’s services are limited, with Kazakhstan offering some access, though it is not fully integrated across other countries like Uzbekistan.
Google Pay
Google Pay is a mobile wallet and payment system developed by Google, allowing users to make purchases with Android devices, smartwatches, or online. It offers secure and fast tap-to-pay functionality for in-person transactions. Kazakhstan already supports Google Pay, while Uzbekistan will introduce it in 2024. The rest of Central Asia, including Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, does not yet have access to this system.
Alipay
One of China’s most widely used payment platforms, Alipay offers an all-in-one mobile wallet solution. It supports a range of services, from online payments and money transfers to booking transportation and even managing investments. Alipay is slowly expanding its presence in Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan, due to increasing Chinese business activities. Uzbekistan will join in offering Alipay by 2024.
UniPay
UniPay is a global payment processing platform that facilitates online payments and e-commerce transactions. It provides secure, reliable payment solutions for merchants and consumers. However, UniPay is not yet widespread in Central Asia, and Uzbekistan will be its first entry into the region's market.
The addition of these payment systems will not only modernize Uzbekistan’s payment landscape but also make the country more accessible to tourists who prefer familiar, secure payment methods. It’s part of the broader digital transformation strategy of the Uzbek government to boost tourism and enhance the ease of doing business in the country.
In preparation for the introduction of these platforms, the Ministry of Digital Technologies is expected to make necessary adjustments to Uzbekistan’s payment systems, working closely with international payment companies to ensure a smooth integration. If required, legislative changes will also be introduced to accommodate these new payment methods.
The implementation of these global payment platforms is set to be completed by the end of 2024, marking a new era for digital transactions in Uzbekistan and positioning the country as a more attractive destination for both tourists and international businesses.
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