Government Plans to Expand UPI’s International Presence, Says DFS Secretary

India is taking steps to widen the global footprint of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI), aiming to increase its acceptance in additional countries. 

The initiative is expected to make digital payments easier for Indian travellers and strengthen cross-border transaction capabilities. 

Officials highlight rising UPI transaction volumes and financial inclusion efforts as key drivers supporting this expansion.

Focus on Overseas Expansion

The Department of Financial Services has indicated that India is actively pursuing wider international acceptance of UPI. 

Current efforts are focused on extending coverage to more countries, with particular attention on East Asian markets. 

The move is designed to support Indian users making digital payments while travelling or conducting transactions abroad.

Countries Currently Accepting UPI

UPI is already operational in eight countries, including Bhutan, Singapore, Qatar, Mauritius, Nepal, the UAE, Sri Lanka and France. Its availability in these regions allows Indian tourists and business travellers to make direct digital payments without relying on cash or card-based systems.

Growth in Digital Transactions

Officials noted that digital transactions in India now account for roughly half of all payment activity, largely supported by the adoption of UPI.

Transaction volumes crossed 21 billion in December 2025, reflecting continued growth in usage across consumers and merchants.

Role of Financial Inclusion Programmes

The expansion of digital payments has been supported by the growth of PM Jan Dhan Yojana accounts, along with a rise in average balances held in these accounts. 

These developments have contributed to broader access to formal banking and digital transaction platforms.

NPCI’s role in Payment Infrastructure

The Unified Payments Interface is operated by the National Payments Corporation of India, which manages retail payment and settlement systems. 

NPCI functions under the guidance of the Reserve Bank of India and the Indian Banks’ Association, providing the backbone for real-time peer-to-peer and merchant transactions.

Support for Micro-Enterprises

The DFS Secretary also highlighted the need to help small and micro-enterprises grow into larger business units. He noted that better market access, improved productivity, and the adoption of technology and equipment could assist in scaling up these enterprises over time.

Read More: BMW Urges Government to Retain 5% GST on Electric Vehicles in Upcoming Budget.

Conclusion

India’s efforts to broaden UPI’s overseas reach reflect a wider strategy to strengthen digital payment infrastructure and support international transaction convenience. Continued growth in transaction volumes and financial inclusion initiatives may play a role in shaping the next phase of UPI’s global expansion.

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