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In a major move to expand digital transactions and accelerate the country’s transition toward a cashless economy, Bangladesh Bank (BB) has made the use of the universal Bangla QR (Quick Response) code mandatory from July 1.
Under the new directive, all merchants — from large shopping malls to small roadside vendors — will adopt a single, interoperable Bangla QR code, allowing customers to make payments through any participating bank or mobile financial service (MFS) app, regardless of the service provider.
Bangladesh Bank said the initiative is aimed at establishing Bangla QR as a unified digital payment platform that is accessible, affordable and secure.
Unlike conventional card-based payment systems that rely on costly Point of Sale (POS) terminals, Bangla QR requires only a low-cost QR sticker, making digital payment acceptance easier and more affordable for small businesses and informal merchants.
The central bank also noted that the system strengthens transaction security by enabling payments directly from customers’ bank accounts or MFS wallets, reducing risks associated with card cloning, PIN theft and cash handling.
BB spokesperson Arif Hosain Khan said the mandatory rollout would ensure full interoperability across the country’s digital payment ecosystem.
“Previously, customers often faced difficulties when a merchant displayed only the QR code of a specific provider. With Bangla QR, a single code can be used for payments through any participating bank or MFS, including bKash, Nagad and bank apps,” he said.
Financial institutions have expressed readiness to implement the new system.
Shamsuddin Haider Dalim, Head of Corporate Communications at bKash, said the unified QR ecosystem would make digital transactions more convenient and reduce dependence on cash.
He added that the company has been replacing its existing merchant QR codes with Bangla QR in line with Bangladesh Bank’s directive.
Md. Abdul Kaium Khan, Deputy Managing Director of NRBC Bank, said the bank is fully prepared for the transition and has already distributed Bangla QR codes to a large number of merchants.
He added that the bank is currently processing more than Tk 10 million in Bangla QR transactions daily.
The mandatory nationwide rollout of Bangla QR is expected to strengthen financial inclusion, promote digital commerce and support the government’s vision of building a modern, cashless Bangladesh.
