Egypt targets InstaPay–PAPSS link for early 2027
Egypt’s InstaPay users could gain a new route to African markets under plans to connect the domestic payments application to the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS). Capmad reports that PAPSS chief executive Mike Ogbalu is targeting completion of the connection in the first quarter of 2027.
The proposed link would support transfers between Egypt and participating African countries in local currencies. Six major Egyptian banks had started joining PAPSS, according to the report, with initial transactions expected before the end of 2026. At the time of reporting, those banks had not yet begun processing live transactions through the system.
For businesses, the significance is practical. Payment arrangements can determine whether a promising supplier relationship becomes a workable trading partnership. A wider choice of settlement routes could help buyers and sellers organise purchases without introducing a third currency into every transaction.
The commercial impact will depend on which banks, currencies and corridors become available, together with pricing and operating requirements. The announcement describes a planned connection, so companies should continue using confirmed payment arrangements until their banks communicate availability.
African Buyers Programme members trading with Egypt can use this development to start a conversation with their banking partners. Ask about supported destination markets, total charges, exchange-rate treatment, transaction limits and the information required from suppliers. Comparing those details against existing arrangements will show whether the new route fits a particular order. Preparing the payment process alongside supplier selection can help prevent avoidable delays when cross-border business is ready to proceed."
