Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has set a deadline for ending cheque-based transactions in government payments. The deadline is November 15, 2024. The move is part of a broader push to transition the country toward a cashless economy.

The government has ordered faster digitization of all payments. This includes the Asaan Assignment Account, a digital payment system. Cheque-based transactions will no longer be accepted after November 15. The shift aims to improve efficiency and reduce corruption.

The push for a cashless economy aligns with the URAAN Pakistan plan, launched by the prime minister in December 2024. URAAN Pakistan is a five-year economic transformation strategy. It focuses on modernizing infrastructure and boosting economic growth. The plan emphasizes collaboration with Saudi Vision 2030.

The government has stressed the importance of digital payments for economic development. Officials believe digitization will enhance transparency and streamline public services. The transition is expected to benefit both the public and private sectors.

The move follows broader efforts to modernize Pakistan’s financial systems. The government has been promoting digital solutions to support economic stability. The deadline for ending cheque-based payments marks a key step in this transformation.