Bangladesh Bank to launch Bangla QR from July 1

Bangladesh Bank (BB) is going to launch ‘Bangla QR’ system from July 1, 2026, in a bid to simplify, standardize and expand digital transactions across the country as part of its broader push towards a cashless economy.

 The central bank of Bangladesh believes the initiative will transform the country’s payment ecosystem by creating a unified, low-cost and inclusive digital transaction platform that can be used by businesses of all sizes, from major shopping malls to roadside vendors, reports BSS on Wednesday.

 Under the new system, merchants will be able to accept payments through a single QR code, eliminating the need for multiple QR codes issued by different financial institutions. 

 The move is expected to make digital transactions more convenient, transparent and accessible.

Officials said Bangla QR offers a significant technological advantage over conventional card-based payment systems, which require costly Point of Sale (POS) machines.

 Instead, merchants only need a simple QR code sticker to receive payments, making the system particularly attractive for small businesses, street vendors and service providers.

The system is also expected to enhance transaction security by allowing payments to be completed directly through customers’ bank or mobile financial service (MFS) applications, reducing risks associated with card cloning, PIN theft and other forms of payment fraud.

To oversee the nationwide rollout and expansion of the platform, Bangladesh Bank has formed a steering committee headed by Governor Md Mostaqur Rahman.

Representatives from relevant government ministries, commercial banks and MFS providers have been included in the committee.