Kyrgyz Shops Reject E-Wallets, Accept Cash Only

Shops and markets in Kyrgyzstan are reportedly stopping payments via e-wallets.

Popular e-wallets like O!Money, MegaPay, and ELSOM are no longer being accepted, with merchants insisting on cash payments only. The move is driven by fear of hefty fines from the State Tax Inspectorate, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Authorities have banned the use of e-wallets registered under individuals or relatives starting in 2026. Violators face fines of 20,000 Kyrgyz som ($228.71) for individuals and 65,000 Kyrgyz som ($743.30) for companies. The tax service has already begun raids to enforce compliance.