The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) International Payments Limited – NIPL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTT DATA Japan, marking a significant milestone in extending India’s pioneering digital payment infrastructure to one of the world’s largest economies.

This partnership will enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) acceptance across Japan, allowing Indian travellers to make seamless, secure, and instant payments at merchant outlets managed by NTT DATA using their existing UPI applications. The initiative aims to simplify cross-border transactions, enhance financial interoperability, and strengthen digital payment connectivity between the two nations.

Powered by NTT DATA’s CAFIS network, a robust payment platform that connects a vast network of merchants, banks, and ATMs across Japan, this collaboration will transform the way Indian visitors engage with Japan’s retail ecosystem. It not only offers convenience and transparency for Indian consumers but also opens new opportunities for Japanese businesses to engage a growing international customer base through faster, cashless, and contactless payments.

UPI’s international presence continues to expand, with successful integrations already in Bhutan, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, the UAE, and Qatar. With Japan now joining the list, the agreement reinforces India’s global leadership in digital financial innovation and reflects its commitment to advancing inclusive, secure, and interoperable payment solutions worldwide.

This development marks another defining step in India’s mission to make UPI a global benchmark for real-time digital payments, bridging economies and empowering seamless financial experiences across borders.