Link International Exchange Company (Pvt.) Ltd., one of Pakistan’s largest and most established exchange companies, has partnered with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to introduce QR code–based payment services under the national Raast Person-to-Person (P2P) program. The initiative represents a major leap in advancing Pakistan’s digital payment infrastructure and marks a significant milestone in Link International Exchange’s mission to promote a secure and cashless financial ecosystem across the country.
Established in 2012 as a Category-A, full-option exchange company licensed by the SBP, Link International Exchange has built a nationwide presence with over 75 fully owned branches. The company provides a range of services including international remittances and foreign currency exchange, catering to millions of Pakistanis across diverse regions. With this latest collaboration, Link International Exchange aims to enhance customer convenience by offering real-time, interoperable QR-based transactions through the Raast platform.
The QR-based payment system enables both merchants and individuals to make instant, secure, and cost-free payments through standardized QR codes developed under SBP’s framework. The integration ensures interoperability across banks, digital wallets, and payment platforms, creating a unified digital ecosystem that supports greater financial inclusion and accessibility for users across Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Saleem Amjad, CEO of Link International Exchange, emphasized the company’s commitment to driving digital transformation within the exchange and remittance sector. “This partnership reflects our ongoing dedication to supporting Pakistan’s transition toward a digital economy. By adopting the Raast framework introduced by the State Bank of Pakistan, we are empowering individuals and businesses to transact with ease, transparency, and confidence,” he said.
The launch event, held at one of the company’s key branches, was attended by distinguished guests including Mr. Tariq Riaz, Chief Manager, State Bank of Pakistan, BSC Lahore, and Mr. Sarfaraz, Deputy Chief Manager, along with their respective teams. Representatives from several leading financial institutions including Bank AL Habib, Bank Alfalah, UBL Bank, and Soneri Bank were also present. The event saw participation from government officials, members of the private sector, and media representatives, all commending Link International Exchange for taking a forward-looking step in digitizing its operations.
By introducing QR payments under the Raast P2P program, Link International Exchange aims to play a pivotal role in reducing cash dependency and curbing informal financial activities. The initiative also supports Pakistan’s broader goals of enhancing transparency, combating money laundering, and channeling remittance flows through formal and secure digital avenues.
The collaboration aligns closely with SBP’s strategic vision of a digitally empowered and financially inclusive Pakistan. Through the Raast system, SBP continues to promote low-cost, efficient, and interoperable payment solutions that enable instant money transfers, helping expand the reach of financial services to previously underserved populations.
For Link International Exchange, this development marks another milestone in its transformation journey from a traditional exchange company to a digitally enabled financial service provider. The company continues to evolve by introducing new products and solutions that prioritize customer convenience, digital security, and nationwide accessibility.
As Pakistan’s digital payment landscape continues to grow, the adoption of QR-based payments by exchange companies like Link International Exchange is expected to drive further innovation, foster trust in digital channels, and strengthen the country’s overall financial ecosystem.
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