Mastercard: consumer move to contactless payments in MEA

Mastercard: consumer move to contactless payments in MEA

Amidst the current outbreak of COVID-19, Mastercard reports 70% of respondents in the MEA are using some form of contactless payment.. During March, many countries in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) have been adopting the necessary social distancing restrictions.. Following its recent study into changing consumer behaviours in 19 countries, Mastercard discovered an acceleration in consumer adoption of contactless payment methods.. As well as staying at home, social distancing also applies to publicly shared devices, like point of sale terminals and checkout counters," said J.K.. An increased confidence in using contactless methods with 70% now using some form of contactless amidst the pandemic and 84% agreeing that contactless is a cleaner way to pay.. Contactless payment methods will be sustained post COVID-19 with nearly 64% confirming that the pandemic has resulted in them using less cash, and 81% confirming that they will continue to use contactless once the pandemic is over.. "The CBB's decision to increase card payment limits and its measures to defer installments, as well as the government's nation-wide campaign to promote contactless and electronic payments, show strong commitment to the local economy which Mastercard fully supports.. Bahrain is truly adopting contactless technology as part of its