Google Pay launched in Bangladesh for the first time

In a major stride toward a cashless and digitally inclusive economy, Google Pay—officially known as Google Wallet—has been launched in Bangladesh for the first time. The service was introduced in partnership with City Bank, Google, Mastercard, and Visa, with City Bank becoming the first bank in the country to offer this global digital payment platform.

The launch event took place on 24 June at The Westin Dhaka in the capital’s Gulshan area, with Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr Ahsan H Mansur inaugurating the service as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included US Embassy chargé d’affaires Tracy Ann Jacobson, City Bank Vice Chairman Hossain Khaled, City Bank CEO Mashrur Arefin, Google’s Payments Product Manager Shammi Quddus, Mastercard Bangladesh Country Manager Syed Mohammad Kamal, and Visa Bangladesh Country Manager Sabbir Ahmed.

With this new service, City Bank customers can now link their Mastercard or Visa debit and credit cards to Google Wallet. This enables them to use Google Pay for secure, fast, and contactless payments—both domestically and internationally - by simply tapping their Android smartphones on any NFC-enabled POS terminal.

The platform employs advanced encryption technology to protect user data, ensuring security and reliability in digital transactions. This means users no longer need to carry physical cards; their smartphones can now function as fully operational digital wallets for activities ranging from shopping to travel.

During the event, Governor Ahsan H Mansur highlighted the significance of adopting modern technology and expressed confidence in Bangladesh‍‍`s growing appeal to global investors. “We are building an inclusive financial system, and encouraging banks to adopt digital solutions is a key part of that,” he stated.

City Bank CEO Mashrur Arefin emphasized the bank’s vision, saying, “This partnership reflects our commitment to shaping a future-ready digital payment ecosystem in Bangladesh.”

The introduction of Google Pay marks a transformative step in Bangladesh’s financial sector, paving the way for more innovation and global connectivity in the digital economy.