A single QR code for payments has been given a launch date in Kazakhstan. National Bank Governor Timur Suleimenov announced that the system will begin operating on 19 July 2026.
WHEN THE SINGLE SYSTEM WILL LAUNCH
The launch of the single QR code was announced by Timur Suleimenov at a Senate meeting. According to him, the system will come into effect on 19 July 2026, the day after the relevant law comes into force.
Mobile payments will be connected to the interbank mobile payment system. By this time, banks must complete the necessary modifications, testing, and ensure connection to the system.
HOW THIS WILL AFFECT RETAIL BUSINESSES
The single system will allow retail businesses to reduce their reliance on a large number of separate solutions and expand their pool of potential customers.
The National Bank noted that entrepreneurs will still determine the number of terminals at a specific retail outlet themselves, taking into account the banks' service conditions.
CONTEXT
The launch of a single QR code has been discussed in the country for some time. In March 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev criticised the largest banks for delaying the introduction of interbank QR payments.
The head of state stated that the mandatory connection to the digital financial infrastructure created by the National Bank is enshrined in law. According to him, interbank QR payments, transfers, and settlements with the digital tenge help reduce costs by shortening the chain of payment intermediaries.
At that time, 15 banks had signed the agreement. However, only 6 of them were actually providing the service: Halyk Bank, Bank CenterCredit, Freedom Bank, Home Credit Bank, Altyn Bank and Bank RBK.
From July 2026, ignoring the system will be considered a violation of the Law on Payments.