Uzbekistan to Integrate Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal to Boost Tourism
Uzbekistan Embraces International Online Payment Systems to Boost Tourism
In a bid to bolster its tourism sector, the Government of Uzbekistan has made the decision to incorporate popular international online payment systems such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal into its financial infrastructure. This move is part of a broader government resolution aimed at enhancing the country’s tourism industry.
On September 26, the government passed a resolution tasking the Central Bank with engaging in negotiations with global payment giants like PayPal, Alipay, and UniPay by the year’s end. The goal is to facilitate the seamless integration of these payment systems with Uzbekistan’s existing financial framework and banking services. This development is anticipated to simplify financial transactions for both tourists and local businesses.
The resolution lays out several key steps to be taken by relevant authorities by the end of 2024. Among these measures, the Ministry of Transport and the Tourism Committee will work towards creating favorable conditions for local and foreign car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Sixt to operate near airports and railway stations.
Furthermore, the resolution includes plans to compile a comprehensive list of tourist routes and attractions spanning various regions, which will be shared with international mapping services offered by Apple and Google. This list will be regularly updated to encompass new destinations and services.
The government has also stressed the importance of ongoing discussions with international online payment providers to ensure their systems are fully integrated into Uzbekistan’s financial landscape. If required, recommendations will be formulated to review national legislation to accommodate these payment systems.
This initiative marks a significant stride towards modernizing Uzbekistan’s financial services and enriching the overall experience for both tourists and residents by enabling seamless online transactions. It is anticipated that these efforts will further enhance Uzbekistan’s appeal as a tourist destination and drive economic growth in the country.
