Myanmar consumers slow to adopt debit cards

Kinks inherent in the system are preventing a rapid growth in the number of users, which has hovered at around 1.8 million, says U Zaw Lin Htut, CEO of Myanmar Payment Union (MPU).

“People are starting to use cards issued by banks and brands, and are finding it increasingly convenient as the number of stores that take cards increases,” he said.

But while international customers use their cards when they need to buy something and leave the rest of their money in their account, Myanmar users typically use cards to withdraw their entire salary at an ATM every payday, he said, adding, “We would like to encourage them to refrain.” (Courtesy of mmtimes.com)