Swiping values continue weak
Mbongeni Mguni | Thursday August 13, 2026 11:56
Bank of Botswana data indicates that the value of swiping transactions between January and March this year was about 29% down from the fourth quarter of 2025. However, the figures for the fourth quarter of any year are traditionally affected by seasonally higher retail spending.
The latest numbers indicate a continuing soft trend in consumer spending, after total Electronic Fund Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) values dropped to P85.4 billion in 2025, from P120.6 billion in 2024. Last year was the first time the key numbers have declined from one year to the next, according to Bank of Botswana data.
Whilst the central bank did not give reasons for the decline, analysts expect that the downtrend is linked to the tighter liquidity experienced in the financial sector, amidst the broader contraction in the economy. The lower figures could also be reflective of lower consumer spending and confidence, trends which are presently not scientifically monitored by data authorities in the country. According to the BoB, quarterly average EFTPOS or swiping values declined to P21.4 billion last year, from an average of P30.2 billion in 2024.
The number of quarterly transactions recorded in 2025 also declined compared to 2024, averaging 34 million from 63 million.