Visa, SSL Commerce partner to promote cashless transactions in Savar region

Visa, the global leader in digital payments, in partnership with SSL Commerce, has officially launched the 'Cashless Savar' pilot programme. This initiative aims to broaden card acceptance beyond metropolitan centres and accelerate the adoption of digital payments in the Savar region.

The launch event took place at Savar New Market and was attended by Md. Sharafat Ullah Khan, Director of the Payment Systems Department, Bangladesh Bank; Visa's Country Manager; Raiyan S. Islam, Director of SSL Commerce; and other senior representatives from the collaborating organisations. Following the formal inauguration, the delegation visited multiple retail outlets, where transactions were conducted using Visa cards. This engagement provided a platform for discussing strategies to enhance digital payment uptake among local merchants and consumers.

'Cashless Savar' represents a significant milestone in expanding Bangladesh's card acceptance infrastructure, with plans underway to extend the initiative to other regions in the near future.

The programme aligns closely with Bangladesh Bank's vision of a Cashless Bangladesh, reinforcing the central bank's commitment to empowering communities with secure, convenient payment solutions. Md. Sharafat Ullah Khan encouraged further expansion of the programme to additional districts and highlighted the importance of continuous engagement with participating merchants.

Sabbir Ahmed, Country Manager for Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan at Visa, said, "At Visa, our mission is to uplift everyone, everywhere, by being the best way to pay and be paid. The launch of 'Cashless Savar' is a major step toward expanding digital inclusion beyond urban centres. We are committed to supporting local merchants and communities in adopting secure, convenient cashless transactions. This collaboration reflects our dedication to fostering economic growth by strengthening and connecting local ecosystems across Bangladesh."

Md. Sharafat Ullah Khan added, 'Cashless Savar' is a timely and commendable initiative to promote digital transaction services among communities outside Dhaka. Expanding such programmes across districts and upazilas will pave the way for the realisation of 'Cashless Bangladesh'. Bangladesh Bank remains committed to policy support aimed at reducing cash dependency and building an inclusive, safe, and efficient transaction system. Through collective efforts, we can establish a modern, technology-driven economic infrastructure."