Visa, Asia Foundation to boost digital inclusion in South Asia

Visa, a global digital payments leader, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with The Asia Foundation to explore collaboration on advancing digital financial inclusion, economic empowerment and digital innovation across Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will identify areas of cooperation to strengthen digital capabilities among underserved communities, small businesses and young people, while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the region.

The proposed areas include digital financial literacy, women’s economic empowerment, MSME digitisation, youth skills development, and research and policy advocacy to support inclusive digital economies.

The partnership will also explore safe and responsible digital use, including cybersecurity and AI awareness, alongside innovation in fintech solutions and green finance.

Sabbir Ahmed, country manager for Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan at Visa, and Kazi Faisal Bin Seraj, country representative of the foundation, signed the MoU in Dhaka recently, according to a press release.

Ahmed said the collaboration aims to help women entrepreneurs, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), rural communities and youth build financial and digital skills, adopt secure digital payment solutions, and participate more effectively in the digital economy.

Seraj said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity in practical ways.

He added that the focus will be on strengthening skills, supporting women entrepreneurs and MSMEs, and enabling greater participation of underserved communities in the digital economy.

The initiative combines Visa’s expertise in digital payments and financial innovation with The Asia Foundation’s regional development experience to support long-term social and economic progress in South Asia.