The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, NMB Bank, and VISA have formally come together to advance digital payment solutions within Nepal’s tourism and hospitality industry. The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of modern, secure, and efficient digital payment systems across hotels, restaurants, travel companies, and other tourism-related businesses.
MoU Signed to Expand Digital Payment Ecosystem
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the three organizations to jointly promote NMB Bank’s innovative “Soft POS” digital payment technology. The agreement was finalized by Mr. Khem Lakai, Chairman of PATA Nepal Chapter; Mr. Gobind Ghimire, CEO of NMB Bank; and Mr. Sabbir Ahmed, VISA’s Country Manager for Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Senior officials and representatives from all three institutions were also present during the signing ceremony.
Under the MoU, the partners will collaborate to strengthen digital infrastructure and encourage tourism businesses to adopt faster, safer, and more convenient cashless payment methods. The initiative is expected to support Nepal’s growing tourism market by enhancing service quality, reducing operational challenges, and improving visitor experience.
Soft POS Technology to Boost Cashless Transactions
NMB Bank’s Soft POS solution, an app-based technology that turns any smartphone into a payment terminal, will be at the core of this partnership. The system enables merchants to accept card payments securely and instantly without requiring traditional POS machines.
The technology aims to make digital payment acceptance more accessible for tourism operators, including those in remote and semi-urban areas, where conventional payment infrastructure may be limited. Through VISA’s global network and PATA Nepal’s extensive reach in the tourism sector, the partners aim to ensure widespread awareness and adoption.
Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Visitor Experience
According to the partners, expanding digital payment options is essential for improving service quality and boosting confidence among both domestic and international tourists. The collaboration highlights the need for secure and transparent transactions, reduced cash handling, and enhanced business efficiency.
By introducing upgraded digital payment platforms, the initiative is also expected to support Nepal’s transition toward a more resilient, tech-driven tourism economy, aligning with global travel trends and post-pandemic recovery strategies.
