A full comparison of online and offline payment experiences in Pakistan

introductory

With the rapid growth of the digital economy, payment methods in Pakistan are undergoing a remarkable transformation. Traditional cash transactions still dominate, but the rise of e-wallets, mobile banking and online payment platforms has provided consumers with more convenient options. In this article, we will comprehensively compare the online and offline payment experience in Pakistan in terms of convenience, security, popularity, and other dimensions to help users better choose the payment method that suits their needs.

1. Status and characteristics of offline payments

(1) Cash remains the mainstay

In Pakistan, cash transactions remain the most common form of payment in everyday life. Whether it is a street vendor or a large shopping mall, most merchants accept cash payments. According to the World Bank, more than 801 TP3T transactions will still be done through cash in 2022.

(2) Use of bank cards and POS machines

The use of debit and credit cards has risen in recent years, particularly in urban areas where large supermarkets, restaurants and hotels support card spending. However:

• Low coverage of POS terminals (mainly in large cities).
• Some merchants prefer to take cash due to processing fees.

(3) Strong demand for ATM cash withdrawals

ATMs are used more frequently due to the high dependence on cash:
✔️ Easy access to cash at any time;
❌ Long queues (especially on payday);
❌ ATM malfunctions or funding shortages occur from time to time;

2. The rise and development of online payments

(1) Popularity of mobile wallets (e.g. JazzCash, EasyPaisa)

Thanks to increased smartphone penetration and support from telecom operators (e.g. Jazz, Telenor), mobile wallets have become the financial tool of choice for many unbanked people:
✔️ No bank account is required to register for use;
✔️ Supports phone bill recharge, transfer and bill payment;
❌ Higher withdrawal fees (around 1%-3%);

case (law)EasyPaisa has reached over 8 million users and accessed over 100,000 merchants.

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(2) QR Code Payment Promotion (Alipay+ & Local Programme)

Chinese tech companies such as Alipay entered the Pak market by partnering with local organisations:

• Alipay+ has been piloted in selected tourist areas/Chinese-owned businesses;
• Local platforms such as UBANK have also launched similar services;

Strengths include:
✅Scan and pay without change;
⚠️ but overall coverage is still well below traditional methods.

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3. Core comparison of online and offline payments

(1) Convenience

✅ Online Payment Advantage:

• Instant Trading: No need to carry cash or queue up, just scan the code or enter your PIN to pay.
• remote operation: Support cross-border remittance, online shopping and bill payment without geographical restrictions.
• Automatic recording of consumption history: E-wallets and banking apps provide detailed transaction records for easy financial management.

❌ Offline payment limitations:

• Reliance on cash can lead to difficulties in making change (especially at small merchants).
• ATM withdrawals may face machine malfunction or insufficient funds.

(2) Comparative safety

✅ Protective measures for online payments:

• OTP verification (One Time Password) reduces the risk of skimming;
• Biometrics (e.g. fingerprint/face unlocking) enhance account security;