The Central Bank of Bahrain announced electronic cheques, or e-Cheques, as a payment method complementing traditional cheques and supporting the move towards a society less dependent on cash.

Scheduled for activation on 19 October 2021, electronic cheques offered additional benefits while retaining the basic characteristics and legal authority of traditional cheques, advancing digital transformation and innovative financial services.

The Central Bank directed BENEFIT, Bahrain’s Electronic Network for Financial Transactions, to implement and operate the Bahrain Electronic Cheque System. BENEFIT had operated the country’s electronic cheque-clearing system since its launch in 2012.

In my view, this step represents an achievement in adopting new financial technology, encouraging innovation and supporting digital transformation. It also promotes access to innovative electronic payment solutions and reduced reliance on cash.