New Delhi, June 30: India has expanded the reach of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to Greece, marking another milestone in the country’s efforts to promote seamless cross-border digital payments. The move is expected to make transactions easier for Indian travellers, businesses, and the Indian diaspora while strengthening fintech cooperation between the two countries.
The expansion is part of India’s broader strategy to internationalise its digital payment ecosystem and enhance the global acceptance of UPI through partnerships with foreign financial institutions and payment service providers.
UPI’s Global Footprint Grows
With Greece joining the UPI network, Indian users will be able to make secure digital payments at participating merchants using UPI-enabled mobile applications, eliminating the need to rely heavily on cash or currency exchange for everyday transactions.
Officials said the initiative will simplify payments for tourists, students, and business travellers visiting Greece while supporting smoother financial transactions.
Boost for Tourism and Trade
The expansion is expected to benefit bilateral tourism and trade by providing faster, secure, and cost-effective payment options.
Businesses in both countries are likely to gain from improved payment interoperability, making cross-border commercial transactions more convenient and efficient.
Digital Public Infrastructure Gains Global Recognition
Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), UPI has emerged as one of the world’s most successful real-time payment systems.
Its growing international presence reflects increasing global interest in India’s digital public infrastructure, with several countries already adopting or partnering to enable UPI-based transactions.
Supporting India’s Fintech Diplomacy
Officials said the latest expansion aligns with India’s vision of promoting digital innovation through international partnerships.
The government has been working with foreign regulators, central banks, and payment service providers to extend UPI services to more destinations, supporting financial inclusion and digital connectivity.
Future Expansion Planned
Industry experts believe UPI’s continued global expansion will further strengthen India’s position as a leader in digital payments and financial technology.
Authorities said discussions are ongoing with additional countries to expand the network, enabling Indian users to enjoy seamless payment experiences across more international destinations in the coming years.
Source: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Ministry of Finance
Original Report:
https://www.npci.org.in/
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