Cashless payments in Bangladesh have experienced remarkable growth in recent years, fuelled by the rapid adoption of credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, and app- and QR code-based payment systems.
The expansion of digital infrastructure, improved internet connectivity, and a strong push from both banks and fintech companies have transformed the country鈥檚 payment habits.
According to Bangladesh Bank data, as of June 2025, the number of credit card users reached 2.95 million, debit card holders rose to 43.45 million, and prepaid card users stood at 7 million 鈥� up from 2.5 million, 3.7 million, and 6 million respectively in June 2024.
As of June 2025, total card transactions in local and foreign currencies hit 51.45 million, amounting to Tk聽48,200 crore.
The trend extends beyond card usage.
Various digital channels recorded significant growth in June, with MICR and non-MICR cheque transactions totalling Tk聽1,70,827 crore, electronic funds transfers (EFT) at Tk聽86,661 crore, real-time gross settlement (RTGS) at Tk聽5,11,059 crore, internet banking transactions at Tk聽1,04,935 crore, and e-commerce transactions at Tk聽2,283 crore.
Credit card spending jumped to Tk聽3,524 crore in June 2025 from Tk聽2,653 crore a year earlier, reflecting greater consumer confidence in cashless purchases.
Debit card transactions stood at Tk聽44,151 crore in June 2025, slightly down from Tk聽47,839 crore in June 2024, which bankers attribute to a shift toward app-based and QR code transactions.
Bankers and industry experts attribute the sustained rise in digital payments to their speed, ease of use, security, and cost-effectiveness.
Customers can now manage accounts, transfer funds, pay bills, and shop online without visiting physical branches or ATMs.
The widespread availability of banking apps, mobile financial services, and QR-based payment solutions has encouraged even small businesses to embrace digital transactions.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a key role in accelerating the shift, as digital transactions were seen as safer and more hygienic than cash handling.
Since then, the habit has stuck, particularly among urban consumers and the younger population.
App-based payments, introduced in Bangladesh in 2018, have surged in popularity due to smartphone penetration, better internet speed, and growing trust in secure payment gateways.
The willingness of both customers and businesses to engage in online transactions has further boosted electronic trade in the country.
Bankers highlight that increased awareness and education about digital systems will fuel further expansion.
They also emphasised the need for government support, such as tax incentives for digital transactions, nationwide improvements in internet coverage, and affordable access to smart devices.
They said that fostering trust and ensuring robust security measures will be crucial in sustaining the momentum of Bangladesh鈥檚 digital payment ecosystem.