Google Pay is preparing to officially enter the Pakistani market by mid-March 2025, introducing its popular contactless payment platform to a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
This milestone underscores the country’s growing shift towards digital financial solutions. Industry sources confirmed that Google’s plans for Pakistan were finalized in November 2024, with Visa and Mastercard playing a pivotal role in facilitating the rollout.
Google Pay initial features and bank partnerships
At launch, Google Pay will allow users to connect their bank-issued debit and credit cards through the Google Wallet app, which will also debut in Pakistan. The initial rollout will prioritize contactless payments, with features like loyalty cards and public transport passes set to be introduced in later phases.
Leading banks are collaborating with Visa and Mastercard to ensure the service’s technical readiness. Four to six major banks are actively working to address infrastructure requirements, aiming to make Pakistan a significant market for Google’s payment solutions.
Pakistan’s infrastructure is well-suited for this launch. According to the State Bank of Pakistan, the country has over 133,000 point-of-sale (POS) terminals, with 99% already capable of accepting mobile contactless payments.
Boost to digital payments
The introduction of Google Pay is expected to accelerate the adoption of digital payments in Pakistan. Recent years have already seen notable growth in cashless transactions, and experts believe this development will further drive the trend. “This aligns with the increasing shift towards cashless systems in Pakistan,” noted a senior banking official involved in the initiative.
Understanding Google Wallet
Google Wallet, formerly Google Pay, is a digital payment platform that allows users to store and manage payment methods, loyalty cards, tickets, and other credentials on Android devices. The platform supports secure, contactless payments at compatible POS terminals, providing a centralized, convenient solution for users.
Security is a top priority for Google Wallet, which uses advanced encryption and device-specific safeguards to protect transactions and personal data. The app’s streamlined approach is designed to encourage users to transition from physical cards to mobile payments.
What’s the difference Google Pay vs Google Wallet
Google Pay and Google Wallet are now essentially the same app. In 2024, Google Pay was replaced by Google Wallet in the United States, merging the two services into one platform. The Google Wallet app now combines the features of both, allowing users to store payment methods, loyalty cards, tickets, and IDs, while also handling payments in stores, apps, and online. So, there is no longer a distinction—Google Pay’s payment functions and Google Wallet’s storage features are now all integrated into the Google Wallet app.
Potential benefits of Google Wallet for Pakistan
The launch of Google Wallet in Pakistan is expected to have a transformative impact:
- Secure, convenient payments: Users can make encrypted, contactless payments directly from smartphones, reducing reliance on physical cards.
- Financial inclusion: Digital payment systems like Google Wallet can help integrate unbanked populations into formal financial systems, bridging the digital divide.
- Simplified travel and events: The app will enable users to store digital boarding passes and event tickets, eliminating the need for paper documents.
- Loyalty programs: Google Wallet’s capacity to store loyalty cards could enhance customer engagement and boost retail sales.