Cross border payments in South Africa are evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by rapid digital innovation, shifting customer expectations, and an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. Regulated primarily by the South African Reserve Bank and its Financial Surveillance Department (FinServ), the sector continues to balance strict exchange control requirements with the growing demand for faster, more seamless and more accessible international transactions.

From traditional correspondent banking and SWIFT payments to ecommerce platforms, card payments, digital wallets, fintech innovation and emerging stablecoin solutions, the cross border payments ecosystem has transformed significantly over the past few years. At the same time, regional initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) are reshaping the future of intra-African trade and financial connectivity.

As cross border payments remain critical to global trade, investment and economic growth, the market continues to expand on a remarkable scale. The combined traditional and crypto-enabled cross border payments market approached an estimated value of one quadrillion dollars globally in 2024, highlighting both the opportunities and risks associated with this rapidly changing environment.

The conference programme will address the challenges, threats and opportunities existing in the current cross border payments environment.