Empowering SL's micro-merchants: Visa introduces game-changing acceptance solution with HNB

VISA, the global leader in digital payments, in partnership with Hatton National Bank (HNB), today announced the launch of ‘Visa Accept’ solution in Sri Lanka. This is the first-ever global rollout of the solution, placing Sri Lanka at the forefront of digital payments innovation.

- 

The launch is timely with the Sri Lankan Government’s sharp focus on revitalising micro and small business owners who form the backbone of the economy.

Visa Accept promotes financial inclusion by seamlessly integrating traditionally excluded micro-entrepreneurs into the digital commerce ecosystem. This solution reduces the entry costs for micro-entrepreneurs, enabling them to explore new economic opportunities. It particularly empowers women entrepreneurs and home-based businesses by providing a secure and easy pathway to growth and scalability.

While opening a merchant account could often involve deterrents like complex paperwork, licensing, and expensive point-of-sale devices, Visa Accept transforms the very architecture by enabling any Visa-debit or Visa-prepaid cardholders to instantly convert their existing account into a seller profile through HNB’s mobile banking app, using just their mobile phone.

Within minutes, micro-businesses can begin receiving payments, transforming mobile phones into secure acceptance devices. Customers can complete transactions through Tap-to-phone or Pay-by-link, enabling a secure and seamless payment experience for both the seller and the consumer.

For the home baker taking her first online orders, the vegetable vendor expanding beyond cash, or the craft seller reaching new buyers, Visa Accept will help to boost Sri Lanka’s micro-businesses, making a simple phone a gateway to economic opportunity.