The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has officially launched the Digital Payments Promotion Campaign 2025, themed “Shaping the Future through Digital Transactions”, to accelerate the adoption of digital payments across the country.
The campaign was inaugurated by CBSL Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe on January 9 at the Magam Ruhunupura Administrative Complex in Hambantota. Organized with the support of Hambantota District Secretary Bimal Indrajith De Silva, financial institutions, and telecommunication service providers, the event witnessed significant participation from public officials, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and the general public.
In his keynote address, Governor Weerasinghe stressed the transformative potential of digital payments in fostering economic development and improving the quality of life for all citizens. He called for greater collaboration among government institutions, businesses, and financial institutions to popularize digital payment methods.
Hambantota District Secretary Bimal Indrajith De Silva emphasized the necessity for financial institutions to simplify technological processes to ensure accessibility for all segments of society.
CBSL Deputy Governor J. P. R. Karunaratne announced that similar awareness campaigns would be held island-wide, particularly targeting remote areas to enhance financial inclusion and allow all citizens to benefit from digital payment systems.
The event featured active participation from banks, finance companies, e-money service providers, and mobile payment application providers. Attendees were guided on how to use mobile phones for digital transactions through the LANKAQR payment method, known for its speed, safety, affordability, and user-friendliness. Vendors at the venue also showcased the convenience of accepting digital payments for daily transactions.
This campaign marks the first in a series of initiatives by CBSL to promote digitalization, aligning with the Government’s broader strategy to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth through modern financial technologies.
