Mastercard, Central Bank of Jordan team to boost digital payments

By Delisha Fernandes

Mastercard and the Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) collaborate to develop a payment ecosystem digitization blueprint for the country.

The collaboration supports the Central Bank of Jordan’s broader efforts to unlock economic growth through promoting acceptance of digital payments, increasing financial inclusion, and combatting high cash usage.

“At the heart of every thriving, inclusive economy are interactions between its people, government, and businesses. In this context, Mastercard serves as a trusted partner, technology provider and advisor to governments in the region and beyond. We offer innovative technology solutions, digital platforms and insights that deliver a seamless and secure payment experience to citizens with the aim of building a connected world that works for everyone,” said Adam Jones, Country General Manager, MENA Central, Mastercard.

The Central Bank of Jordan will benefit from Mastercard’s global expertise to accelerate economic and payments digitization and improve acceptance. Mastercard will use its proven approach, which includes a deep analysis of payment flows between businesses, consumers, and the government with a focus on addressing pain points, such as policy and regulation.

This collaboration represents a strategic roadmap guiding businesses and consumers towards a more efficient, secure, and accessible financial future. It paves the way for a more connected economy that fosters innovation, drives inclusion, and fuels economic growth.

Currently, most of payments in Jordan are in cash. Economies that are cash-reliant bear significant costs in many forms, such as underreported income, with informal economies accounting for up to 40% of the GDP. Moreover, cash is less secure and can be costly for businesses to handle. Merchants and consumers can both benefit from enhanced financial education on the various benefits they can both reap from the use of digital payments.