State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially recognized 1LINK (Private) Limited as a Designated Payment System (DPS) under Section 4(1) of the Payment Systems & Electronic Funds Transfer Act, 2007. The designation, effective from August 20, 2025, acknowledges the pivotal role 1LINK has played in shaping Pakistan’s digital financial infrastructure. This recognition establishes 1LINK as a cornerstone in the payment ecosystem, entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring integrity, stability, and interoperability across the country’s digital transactions.
With its new status as a DPS, 1LINK is set to continue working closely with SBP, financial institutions, and fintechs to build consumer confidence and drive the shift towards a digitally connected economy. The DPS designation not only strengthens 1LINK’s position in the financial sector but also enhances its mandate to safeguard resilience and security in payments. This development is viewed as a critical step in fostering innovation while ensuring that payment systems in Pakistan remain reliable, secure, and inclusive for businesses and consumers alike.
Owned by a consortium of 11 banks, 1LINK is already established as Pakistan’s largest switch and payment system provider. Its wide range of services includes ATM switching, 1BILL bill payment platform, interbank funds transfer, fraud risk management, switch dispute resolution, and international payment schemes. Additionally, 1LINK operates PayPak, the domestic payment scheme, along with initiatives such as Sohni Dharti Remittance Program. Over the years, the company has consistently expanded its offerings, evolving to meet the demands of the financial industry and supporting the national goal of a more inclusive economy.
This recognition by SBP highlights 1LINK’s continued commitment to expanding digital financial services and creating a more secure ecosystem. It enables the company to push forward with innovation and strengthen its role in advancing financial inclusion. By aligning its services with the evolving needs of financial institutions and consumers, 1LINK is positioned to further solidify its role in Pakistan’s payments landscape while supporting business growth and consumer trust.
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