Government to scrap fees on transfers between personal bank cards

Uzbekistan is set to abolish fees on transfers between an individual’s own bank cards, even when the cards are issued by different banks. The proposal was presented on May 5 at a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Photo: KUN.UZ

The initiative follows a policy introduced on April 1 requiring non-cash payments for a range of goods and services. Authorities are now looking to make cashless transactions more practical and appealing for everyday use.

Officials also outlined plans to simplify the cashback system. Customers at cafes, restaurants and petrol stations currently face delays in receiving cashback. Under the proposed changes, funds would be credited shortly after a purchase receipt is issued.

The meeting further addressed the cost and security of digital banking services. Participants proposed reviewing charges linked to anti-fraud SMS alerts, with alternatives such as in-app notifications or biometric authentication under consideration. These options are expected to maintain security standards while lowering costs for users.

According to the presidential press service, Mirziyoyev stressed that digitalization should reduce friction, not create additional burdens for businesses and the public. The measures are expected to support further growth in the digital economy by removing technical and financial barriers to cashless payments.