NPCI International Payments Ltd and the Central Bank of Seychelles signed a memorandum of understanding on June 28 to deploy UPI digital payment infrastructure in Seychelles. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed during a briefing on June 29 that UPI is targeted to become operational in the island nation by the end of 2026.
The MoU was one of 19 bilateral outcomes announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Seychelles. The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Modi and President Patrick Herminie agreed to deepen cooperation across digital transformation, maritime security, healthcare, and defence.
Seychelles will be the latest addition to UPI's expanding international footprint. UPI merchant payments are currently accepted in nine countries following Cambodia's UPI-KHQR linkage going live on June 2. NPCI International has signed agreements with Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, and Maldives for future deployment.