The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just change how we live — it also revolutionized how we pay. In Nepal, the use of QR codes for payments has tripled since the pandemic, marking a major shift toward digital and contactless transactions.
Before COVID, cash was king in Nepal. From local tea shops to bustling marketplaces, physical currency dominated daily life. However, health concerns, lockdowns, and a push for safer interactions drove both businesses and consumers to seek touch-free solutions. QR code-based payments quickly emerged as the perfect answer — fast, secure, and hygienic.
Today, QR scanning options are widely available across Nepal. Whether you’re buying groceries from a street vendor, sipping coffee at a trendy café, or hopping into a local taxi, chances are you’ll spot a QR code displayed prominently, ready to be scanned for payment.
Why the Surge in QR Payments?
- Health and Hygiene: Minimizing physical contact became essential during COVID.
- Convenience: A simple scan from a mobile app completes the transaction in seconds.
- Wider Accessibility: Banks and payment service providers like eSewa, Khalti, and Fonepay aggressively expanded QR payment networks.
- Growing Digital Literacy: More Nepalis now use smartphones and online services than ever before.
The Impact on Businesses
Businesses, both big and small, have benefited. Small vendors who traditionally handled only cash have been able to offer digital payment options, expanding their customer base. QR codes have leveled the playing field, making it easier for local entrepreneurs to participate in Nepal’s growing digital economy.
What’s Next?
With ongoing improvements in digital infrastructure and mobile banking, the future of cashless payments in Nepal looks bright. QR technology is no longer just a convenience; it’s fast becoming a necessity for everyday transactions.
As Nepal moves towards a smarter, more connected future, QR code payments stand as a shining example of innovation driven by resilience.
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