UPI Global Expansion & Scapia Pay Launch (2026): Digital Payments Ecosystem in Focus

Context:

India’s digital payment ecosystem continues to expand globally and domestically:

• NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) has expanded UPI merchant acceptance in Sri Lanka
• Scapia, a travel fintech platform, has launched Scapia Pay, enabling UPI payments via RuPay credit cards

These developments highlight India’s growing leadership in real-time digital payments and fintech innovation.

UPI Expansion in Sri Lanka by NIPL

What is the Initiative?

In March 2026, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) expanded the acceptance of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) across merchant establishments in Sri Lanka.

This allows Indian users to make seamless digital payments while traveling abroad.

Objective of the Expansion

Enhancing Cross-Border Payments

• Enable Indian tourists to make real-time payments abroad
• Reduce dependency on cash and forex

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

• Supports economic and cultural relations between India and Sri Lanka

UPI Ecosystem: Key Facts

• Processes 20+ billion transactions monthly
• Over 700 million QR touchpoints in India
• Operational in 8+ countries, including:
  • UAE
  • Singapore
  • Bhutan
  • Nepal
  • Sri Lanka
  • France
  • Mauritius
  • Qatar

What is Scapia Pay?

Scapia Pay is a newly launched in-app UPI payment service that allows users to make payments using RuPay credit cards while earning rewards.

Objective of Scapia Pay

• Integrate:
  • Daily payments
  • Credit usage
  • Travel rewards
• Create a unified fintech ecosystem