Kathmandu, Aug 27 – In a landmark achievement for Nepal’s digital payment sector, Smart Choice Technologies Ltd. (SCT) has been selected as a member of the first-ever PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) India–South Asia Regional Engagement Board (REB) for 2025–2026.

SCT is the only organization from Nepal among the 27 leading regional members, which also includes global and regional giants like Google and NPCI India.

The PCI SSC is a global body that sets and promotes international payment security standards, ensuring safer transactions worldwide. The formation of the India–South Asia REB underscores the region’s growing importance in the global payments ecosystem.

SCT’s Role in the REB

As a board member, SCT will:

Advise PCI SSC on regional payment security challenges and opportunities.

Provide feedback on standards and program development.

Promote awareness and education of PCI SSC standards across South Asia.

Leadership Speaks

SCT CEO Manoj Ghimire said:
“We are honoured to represent Nepal on this prestigious global platform. This recognition underscores SCT’s commitment to advancing secure digital payments in Nepal and South Asia.”

PCI SSC Regional Director Nitin Bhatnagar welcomed the members, calling it “a proud moment for the region to shape a more secure payments ecosystem amid evolving cybersecurity challenges.”

PCI SSC Executive Director Gina Gobeyn highlighted that the new REB “represents an important step in global collaboration and reflects the significance of the India–South Asia market in payment security.”

About SCT

Smart Choice Technologies Ltd. (SCT) is Nepal’s first domestic card network and a licensed Payment Service Operator, enabling secure and innovative payment solutions nationwide. SCT plays a key role in driving financial inclusion, innovation, and digital transformation in Nepal’s digital economy.