bKash deploys Bangla QR at 800,000 outlets, boosts digital payments

In a major boost to Bangladesh’s cashless economy drive, bKash has completed the country’s largest Bangla QR rollout by replacing QR systems at more than 800,000 merchant outlets nationwide, aligning with Bangladesh Bank’s push to expand interoperable digital payments.

Backed by substantial investment and expanded operational capacity, the mobile financial service provider said it completed the rollout within the timeline set by the central bank, enabling customers to make cashless payments not only through the bKash app but also through other compatible digital wallets.

The initiative has already transformed merchant payments, with transactions worth more than Tk 200 crore on average every day being processed through bKash’s merchant network, according to a press release issued on Wednesday.

From neighbourhood grocery shops and pharmacies to restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, lifestyle brands and major retail chains, customers can now make payments instantly by scanning Bangla QR codes deployed by bKash.

The company said the nationwide network is strengthening Bangladesh’s digital payment infrastructure and supporting the government’s vision of a cashless economy by creating a single interoperable QR ecosystem for merchants and consumers.

To accelerate customer adoption, bKash has launched promotional campaigns at 45,000 merchant outlets across the country. Customers paying through the bKash app by scanning Bangla QR can receive cashback and discount coupons worth up to Tk 10,000.

The company has also introduced several technology-driven innovations to speed up merchant payments. It became the first operator in Bangladesh to deploy digital payment speakers, which provide instant audio confirmation of successful transactions, reducing payment time and enhancing security and convenience for both merchants and customers.

In a further expansion of its digital commerce ecosystem, bKash has partnered with BRAC Bank to pilot an instant short-term loan facility for merchants. Based on transaction history and merchant ratings, eligible businesses can access collateral-free financing directly through their merchant accounts.

As digital payments continue to gain momentum across Bangladesh, bKash said it is driving adoption through year-round cashback offers, discounts and awareness campaigns.

With rising customer participation and growing acceptance among merchants, digital payment transactions are recording steady growth, marking another significant step in Bangladesh’s transition towards a fully interoperable and cashless economy.