Traders and economic experts in Dera Ismail Khan have welcomed the federal government’s efforts to expand digital banking and financial inclusion, saying the measures are improving business efficiency, enhancing transparency and accelerating Pakistan’s transition towards a cashless economy.
The views were expressed following Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb’s budget speech for the 2026-27 fiscal year, in which he highlighted progress under the Digital Pakistan initiative. According to the minister, the number of digital banking users has reached 133 million nationwide, while merchants linked to digital payment systems increased from 500,000 to 1.677 million over the past year. Annual digital transactions also rose sharply from 6.9 billion to 10.1 billion.
Positive Development for Businesses
President of the Central Traders Union Dera Ismail Khan, Sohail Ahmed Azmi, described the expansion of digital banking services and merchant connectivity as a positive development for both businesses and the wider economy. He said the growing use of digital payment platforms had brought greater convenience and transparency to commercial activities, enabling traders to manage transactions more efficiently and maintain better financial records.
Small and Medium Enterprises Embrace Digital Payments
Mr Azmi noted that small and medium-sized enterprises were increasingly embracing digital payment solutions and urged the government to continue strengthening internet connectivity, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas.
Local trader Muhammad Irfan Haider said the increasing use of mobile banking applications and QR-code payments had made transactions faster and more secure. He observed that customers were becoming more comfortable with electronic payment methods, reducing reliance on cash and improving transparency in everyday business dealings.
Economist Highlights Long-term Benefits
Economist Muhammad Tariq said the expansion of digital financial services represented an encouraging trend for Pakistan’s economy, as greater participation in the formal banking system could help improve economic documentation and support long-term growth. He stressed the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, alongside public awareness initiatives aimed at extending the benefits of financial technology to remote and less-developed regions.
Members of the business community expressed confidence that sustained policy support and wider adoption of digital payment systems would further strengthen Pakistan’s financial sector and contribute to the development of a more inclusive and technology-driven economy.
