SBP initiates ‘go cashless’ drive for Eid-ul-Adha 2026

Eid-ul-Adha 2026: State Bank of Pakistan launches statewide “Go Cashless” campaign to promote safe, convenient digital transactions in livestock markets across the country

The project, launched under the Digital Pakistan vision, intends to cut down on cash transactions and increase the usage of digital payments during the busy trading season of Eid.

The central bank said livestock markets see a huge economic and commercial activity every year during Eid-ul-Adha and most transactions are customarily made in cash. SBP has been encouraging digital financial inclusion in these seasonal markets in recent years, in view of the high volume of transactions.

“Building on the success of previous campaigns, the initiative has been significantly expanded in 2026,” the central bank said. Last year 54 cattle markets took part, this year 96.

Under the “Go Cashless” program, 22 partner banks will set up dedicated camps and kiosks at selected livestock markets to aid buyers and sellers. The banks would also help the livestock sellers, transporters and service providers to open accounts and use QR code based payment methods.

The SBP has temporarily lowered transaction and account balance limits for the period from May 14 to June 5, 2026 to facilitate higher transaction activity during Eid.

The central bank also said that mobile banking vans, ATMs and cash deposit machines will be placed in and near cattle markets to ensure access to financial services wherever feasible.

The SBP suggested the general public to adopt mobile banking applications and Raast digital payment system to prevent dangers of carrying cash and help promote transparency and security in financial transactions.