Mastercard, a global pioneer in payment innovation and technology says its newly introduced Digital First programme will strengthen digital payment capabilities across Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (EEMEA).
The programme offers consumers the ease of applying online, instant digital card issuance, real-time card management and secure, straightforward online payments, the company said in a statement.
“Mastercard’s ‘Digital First’ programme gives consumers a host of options in making payments from ecommerce to contactless, to QR, using any digital device of their choice.
“It also enables consumers to have control to manage their finances, as well as enhanced security for peace of mind. Not to mention, consumers get to interact with card benefits and offers that deliver real value in moments that matter to them,” the company stated.
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A research by Mastercard shows that 73 percent of consumers in the Middle East and Africa shop more online since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, while 66 percent have started to bank online.
Another Mastercard study indicated that 9 in 10 consumers in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region are considering using at least one emerging digital payment method such as cryptocurrency, biometrics, contactless, QR code or digital wallets.
“Digital First is all about providing choice and convenience across the digital payment landscape. This region is embracing the digital revolution to realize its true digital potential and that is exciting news for the whole ecosystem, from consumers and small businesses to financial institutions and governments,” said Gaurang Shah, head of products EEMEA, Mastercard.
Shah also said that the company is looking forward to growing the digital economy through its partnerships and continuous innovation in the MEA.
Mastercard customers in EEMEA, can leverage the excellent global partnerships with end-to-end digital first enablers, such as Thales, Network International and Verestro, along with regional partners with stellar reputations, such as FOO, Ukeshe, and Paymentology.
