The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has launched a nationwide “Go Cashless” campaign ahead of Eidul Azha to promote secure and convenient digital payments in cattle markets across the country. As part of its broader effort to modernise Pakistan’s financial system, the central bank has significantly expanded the initiative this year, increasing coverage from 54 cattle markets in 2025 to 96 markets in 2026.
The campaign is designed to reduce reliance on cash transactions during the busy Eid season, when cattle markets witness massive commercial activity. According to the SBP, these markets generate billions of rupees in transactions every year, yet most payments are still made in cash. Through this initiative, the central bank hopes to encourage buyers, sellers, and service providers to adopt digital payment methods.
Banks to Set Up Camps and QR Payment Facilities
Under the expanded campaign, 22 banks will establish dedicated camps and kiosks in selected cattle markets nationwide. These setups will assist visitors in making digital payments and opening bank accounts on-site.
Banks will also facilitate cattle sellers, transporters, and other vendors by onboarding them onto digital platforms. QR code payment solutions will be introduced to make transactions faster, safer, and more transparent for everyone involved.
The SBP stated that the initiative is part of its ongoing mission to improve financial inclusion and accelerate the digitisation of Pakistan’s payment ecosystem.
Temporary Relief Measures During Eid Season
To support increased transaction activity during Eidul Azha, the SBP has introduced temporary relaxations on account balance and transaction limits. These relaxations will remain effective from May 14 to June 5, allowing users to carry out larger digital transactions more conveniently.
Additionally, mobile banking vans, automated teller machines (ATMs), and cash deposit machines will be deployed where possible near cattle markets to improve access to financial services.
The central bank has encouraged the public to use digital payment options such as mobile banking apps, branchless banking wallets, Raast-enabled services, and QR code payments during the Eid season.
Push Towards a Digital Economy
The “Go Cashless” campaign reflects SBP’s broader vision of shifting seasonal and high-volume business activities toward formal digital channels. By expanding the initiative to more cattle markets this year, the central bank aims to make Eid-related transactions safer, more efficient, and easier for the public.
Officials believe the campaign will not only reduce the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash but will also help more people become familiar with digital financial services.
FAQS
What is the SBP Go Cashless campaign?
The Go Cashless campaign is an initiative launched by the State Bank of Pakistan to encourage digital payments in cattle markets during Eidul Azha.
How many cattle markets are included this year?
The campaign has expanded from 54 cattle markets in 2025 to 96 markets in 2026.
Which payment methods are being promoted?
The SBP is promoting mobile banking apps, Raast-enabled services, branchless banking wallets, and QR code payments.
How many banks are participating in the campaign?
A total of 22 banks are participating by setting up camps and kiosks in cattle markets.
What facilities will banks provide in cattle markets?
Banks will assist with digital payments, account opening services, and QR code payment solutions for buyers and sellers.
Are there any special transaction relaxations for Eidul Azha?
Yes, the SBP has temporarily relaxed transaction and account balance limits from May 14 to June 5.
Why is the SBP promoting digital payments in cattle markets?
The initiative aims to reduce cash dependency, improve transaction security, and increase digital financial inclusion in Pakistan.
Conclusion
The State Bank of Pakistan’s expanded Go Cashless campaign marks another major step toward promoting digital payments and financial inclusion across the country. By increasing the number of cattle markets covered and introducing easier payment solutions, the SBP is encouraging both buyers and sellers to move away from traditional cash dealings. With added banking facilities, temporary transaction relaxations, and QR-based payment systems, the initiative is expected to make Eidul Azha market transactions more secure, convenient, and efficient while supporting Pakistan’s transition toward a digital economy.