Google Pay Launching in Bangladesh with City Bank Partnership

Google Pay is expected to launch in Bangladesh soon, marking a major step toward digital payments in the country. Industry insiders say the service could roll out within the next month, starting with support for City Bank Visa and Mastercard holders.

With the launch, Android phones will function as digital wallets. Users will be able to tap their phones to pay at shops, restaurants, airports, and more — wherever NFC (Near Field Communication) is supported.

Only City Bank customers will be able to use the service at first, but it will expand to other banks over time. Payments will be processed through each user’s linked bank account.

This marks a key moment in Bangladesh’s digital finance journey. Google Pay has already launched in India, Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Bangladesh has been behind due to banking system limitations.

City Bank is working with Google to change that. Once live, users will make fast and secure contactless payments with their phones — no need to carry plastic cards.

“Google Pay will make everyday payments easier and boost ecommerce,” said a senior banker involved in the project.

In India, Google Pay leads digital payments, handling over half of all transaction value. Pakistan also joined in March 2025. Now Bangladesh is following the regional trend.

No Bangladesh Bank Approval Needed

According to sources, Google Wallet will not store user data, so the app itself doesn’t need direct approval from the Bangladesh Bank. However, partner banks must notify the central bank before launching.

Will Google Charge Users?

Google Pay won’t charge users for most transactions, like store purchases or bank-linked transfers. But banks may apply fees, especially for international or foreign currency transactions. For local transactions, fees are not expected.

What About Existing Services?

Bangladesh already has strong local options like bKash, Rocket, and Upay, which handle millions of daily transactions. Some local operators want equal regulation for global services.

“We welcome competition but want fair rules,” said a senior bKash official.

The arrival of Google Pay could push Bangladesh closer to a fully digital, cashless economy — starting with a phone tap.