This week in Amman, an AFI/Central Bank of Jordan member training event, supported by Jordan Payments and Clearing Company (JoPACC), is exploring the potential of instant payment systems to drive financial inclusion and inclusive economic growth. 

The event, attended by 52 representatives from 39 AFI member institutions, is comparing countries’ experiences in implementing IPS and transforming their payments landscape. It features a deep dive into Jordan’s experience with CliQ, an instant payments system introduced by JoPACC which is integrated into the mobile banking apps of 19 banks, and which now handles over 5 million transactions per month. 

“Instant payment systems are the cornerstone of the digital transformation of the financial sector, and present an unprecedented opportunity to expand access to credit, savings, and insurance, thereby fostering economic inclusivity and financial integration,” said H.E. Dr Khaldoun Al-Wshah, Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Jordan. 

“In Jordan, CliQ has substantially boosted financial inclusion, its ease of use and convenience fostering national confidence and trust in digital financial services,” said Maha Bahou, CEO, Jordan Payments & Clearing Company. “A broad spectrum of users, including those previously excluded from traditional banking services, are now participating fully in the digital economy.” 

“Instant payment systems’ potential extends far beyond speeding up transactions – it can lay the foundation for financial inclusion by bringing affordable, accessible services within reach of those who need them most,” said AFI Deputy CEO & Chief Implementation Officer, Dr Garegin Gevorgyan. “By delivering more affordable remittances, easier access to microloans, and tailored insurance solutions, we empower individuals, uplift families, and create lasting economic impact.” 

You can learn more about instant payment systems in a recently published AFI case study on Transfer365, a retail payment system that has  transformed El Salvador’s financial landscape.