Laos central bank launches CBDC pilot

The central bank of Laos has begun testing a proof of concept central bank digital currency (CBDC) known as the DLak or digital Lao kip as part of its research into the potential issuance of a CBDC in the country... More




What's New in Payments

Central bank pilots QR mobile payments in Cambodia

NBC tests new mobile payment app — Khmer Times — “The National Bank of Cambodia yesterday announced that is testing a mobile payment application system known as Bakong… Four financial institutions are so far included — Acleda Bank, Foreign Trade Bank, Wing Specialised Bank and Vattanac Bank… The new system will facilitate money transfers and payments (including across national borders) while enhancing financial inclusion in the country.”


What's New in Payments

UnionPay sets out its mobile payments rollout plans

UnionPay International launches mobile payment service platform to accelerate rolling out of its mobile payment worldwide — UnionPay — “UnionPay International will introduce Huawei Pay to the global markets this year, and Russia is expected to be the first country outside mainland China where Huawei Pay will be launched. In addition, UnionPay QR code payment will be available in Tajikistan, Japan, Cambodia and Suriname this year… UnionPay International is working with major institutions in Hong Kong, Kenya, and Nepal in jointly developing the international version of the UnionPay app.”