Vodafone Fiji has extended its partnership with Paymentology to enable the issue of Mastercard digital first cards to its customers via the M-PAiSA app.
The operator introduced its inaugural closed loop mobile wallet solution in 2010, and since then it has evolved into an open-loop payment service platform offering a full suite of features such as utility payments, in-store QR payment, remote payments, cross border remittance and internet payment gateway services.
Paymentology is providing Vodafone Fiji the crucial connectivity to establish a gateway to the Mastercard global network for the issuing of M-PAiSA Mastercard debit cards. The partnership utilises smart APIs and a pre-established technology stack to authorise and process Mastercard payments. With the assistance of Paymentology, Vodafone Fiji can now provide its customers with a secure and seamless payment experience, while managing sophisticated operations by exempting Vodafone from the complexities of global payment connectivity and compliance for faster deployment.
Credit and debit card usage in Fiji lags behind that of developed markets, presenting a significant disparity. Recent surveys have revealed that a considerable proportion of Fijians face difficulties obtaining scheme cards for cross-border payments and participating in a digital economy. With the onboarding of M-PAiSA Mastercard, customers will have the ability to apply through the M-PAiSA App without needing to visit an outlet.
Emre Durusut, Regional Director APAC at Paymentology, said: “This move has not only diversified [Vodafone Fiji’s] revenue streams but has also reduced their reliance on conventional communication services, which are now considered mature products. Vodafone continues to explore new boundaries in the mobile world, and with our support has not only unlocked new markets but has also made significant strides in promoting financial inclusion.”
Vodafone Fiji is a 100% locally owned entity, of which 51% is owned by Amalgamated Telecommunications Holdings and 49% by Fiji National Provident Fund.
