Afghans Demand Swift Action on Old Banknotes and Push for Digital Payment Solutions

Residents of Afghanistan are calling for a swift collection of old banknotes and the expansion of electronic payments. The circulation of these worn-out notes has posed challenges in everyday transactions.

Ongoing Circulation of Worn Banknotes in Afghan Markets

The continued presence of tattered banknotes in daily markets has raised serious concerns among the populace. Residents from various provinces have voiced their worries about the degrading quality of these damaged notes, calling for their rapid withdrawal and replacement with digital payments.

Challenges Posed by Old Banknotes

Shoppers and merchants in Kabul and Jalalabad report daily challenges due to the rejection of damaged notes. They assert that in many instances, the numbers and texts on these banknotes have become illegible, with traders refusing to engage in transactions involving these compromised currencies.

The Need for Expanding Electronic Payments

Experts emphasize that the fundamental solution to this issue lies in promoting a culture of online payments. Although Da Afghanistan Bank recently announced the development of the digital payment system “AF-PAY,” the lack of electronic point-of-sale (POS) devices in most markets and shops has limited access to banking cards.

Public Demands from the Central Bank

Citizens are urging officials at the central bank to not only devise programs for the collection of unusable money but also to establish the necessary infrastructure for the installation of electronic payment machines nationwide. They believe this initiative could significantly reduce reliance on cash.