Source: nbs
This week the National Bank of Samoa (nbs), in partnership with Mastercard, launched the first Debit card available in Samoa. The card features chip-enabled technology including contactless payment feature “Tap & Go”, which allows consumers to make faster payments for everyday purchases rather than using cash.
“Innovation is key to achieving our vision of improving the welfare of Samoans and our economy,” states nbs Chairman Va’atuitui Apete Meredith. “The launch of our new nbs Debit Mastercard card will enhance the adoption of a cashless society in Samoa and will create a world of opportunities for our local people and their international goals.”
The nbs Debit Mastercard card can be used locally in Samoa at over 100 retail stores, as well as for online purchases, international payments and while travelling overseas. It is accepted in over 40 million locations worldwide.
The offering will allow locals to use online payment systems, which nbs says will support the growing number of new and innovative business applications that require online purchasing. These include the Apps ‘Seki Eats’ to order home delivery food, ‘My Digicel’ to top up mobile phone credit and ‘Samoa Shipping’ to book and pay for ferry transfers between Upolu and Savaii, as well as other local Samoan Apps.
“Mastercard is delighted to partner with nbs to provide locals with access to safe and convenient payment services that will foster financial inclusion and economic growth,” says Ruth Riviere, Country Manager, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, Mastercard. “Mastercard looks forward to seeing how this innovation will provide greater financial security and an even better quality of life in Samoa.”
Currently 60% of transactions in Samoa are unbanked, and the majority of people go to the ATM to get cash out to pay for their bills and purchase goods and services.
The initiative, supported by Samoa’s Minister of Finance Sili Epa Tuioti, fits within Samoa’s National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2017-2020 which has the vision of financial inclusion underpinning the ‘Improved Quality of Life for all’ and greater economic prosperity.
Applications for the nbs Debit Mastercard card can be made online or in all nbs branches.
