PM unveils first ever local currency card

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wednesday (November 1) unveiled Bangladesh's first ever local currency card, "TakaPay", aiming to reduce dependency on international cards such as Visa, Mastercard as well as to save foreign currencies.

The premier inaugurated the national card scheme at the launching ceremony at her official residence Ganabhaban this morning.

Bangladesh Bank (BB), Sonali Bank, City Bank and Brac Bank were virtually connected to the ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Hasina said today's national card scheme TakaPay is another step towards building Smart Bangladesh.

She said this sovereign domestic payment system is also an initiative for the cashless society in Bangladesh.

The TakaPay card is being issued by state-owned Sonali Bank alongside private sector's City Bank and BRAC Bank in collaboration with the Bangladesh central bank.

Prime Minister's Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah moderated the function, while BB Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder delivered the welcome address.