Mmegi

Swiping values continue weak

Easy pay: The value of swiping continues to trend downwards PIC FIJI SUN
Easy pay: The value of swiping continues to trend downwards PIC FIJI SUN

The value of 'swiping transactions' or electronic payments at points of sale declined to P14.4 billion in the first quarter of the year, about 37% down from the first quarter of 2025, continuing a weak trend seen since last year.

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.

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