QR codes now compulsory for all retail outlets across Pakistan

Minister of state for finance Bilal Azhar Kiani has passed a new executive order that QR codes are now mandatory for all retail outlets throughout Pakistan to promote a cashless economy.

Speaking at a policy discussion organized by the Institute for Public Opinion Research, Azhar explained that every retail outlet must provide at least one digital payment option for customers. 

Furthermore, he said the government is promoting digital payments as part of its ‘cashless Pakistan’ initiative. The initiative aims to expand financial inclusion and reduce reliance on cash. Federal and provincial authorities are reportedly working on supportive laws to facilitate the change. 

Meanwhile, the IPOR study highlighted the regulatory gaps in compliance with the FBR Track and Trace System in the tobacco sector, particularly among retail sellers. Addressing this, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to more rigorous enforcement of TTS rules to catch illegal cigarette brands and brought under regulatory control. 

Moreover, Kiani clarified that retailers selling legal brands won’t be penalized, but non-compliant products will be brought under regulatory control through enhanced monitoring and enforcement. 

According to officials mandatory QR code policy will not only improve compliance with existing laws but also help increase revenue collections across sectors.