Chairman of the National Bank of Kazakhstan Timur Suleimenov stated that July 19 will be the unified date for all commercial banks in the country to connect to the national QR code system. No exceptions are provided for the largest market players.
What happened
According to the head of the National Bank, next week the regulator will hold a meeting with market participants to resolve technical integration issues. At the same time, Timur Suleimenov found it difficult to answer exactly what sanctions await banks in case they miss the deadline. He noted that enforcement measures will be applied if they are expressly provided for by the regulatory framework.
Country and market
As of early June 2026, 9 out of 23 second-tier banks in Kazakhstan have connected to the unified QR system.
The main intrigue of the project is the integration of Kaspi.kz. The bank has historically built the largest closed QR code payment infrastructure in the country, and its connection to the national system is a key stage for the regulator. Previously, the National Bank had already strengthened the supervisory contour in the financial market — for example, preparing a mandatory contribution for banks to rescue systemically important players. Now, Timur Suleimenov’s focus is directed at leveling the playing field in acquiring.
Why it matters
The unified QR code is expected to change the mechanics of accepting payments: a client of any bank will be able to pay through any terminal that supports the national standard. The public statement by the head of the National Bank sets strict deadlines but leaves the question of infrastructure readiness open.
What’s next
The actual technical readiness of the banks will become clear after the upcoming meeting with the National Bank.
The lack of harsh rhetoric from the regulator regarding fines leaves large players room to maneuver if the system integration requires more time.
