NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). The agreement marks a significant step toward enabling Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions for Indian tourists visiting Japan, allowing seamless digital payments across Japanese merchants powered by NTT DATA’s payment infrastructure.
UPI, India’s homegrown real-time payment system, has transformed digital finance since its launch in 2016 by enabling secure, instant money transfers through mobile apps. In September 2025 alone, UPI facilitated nearly 20 billion transactions worth over $280 billion — a testament to India’s booming digital economy and financial inclusion drive.
“This partnership represents a major milestone in expanding payment options for travelers from India,” said Masanori Kurihara, Head of Payments Services Sector at NTT DATA. “By launching UPI acceptance in Japan, we aim to simplify payments for Indian visitors while supporting Japanese merchants in reaching a broader customer base.”
Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO of NIPL, added, “Our collaboration with NTT DATA sets the stage for introducing UPI acceptance in Japan. It reflects our commitment to improving cross-border payment experiences and establishing UPI as one of the world’s most trusted digital payment systems.”
This collaboration marks UPI’s first entry into East Asia and aligns with Japan’s ongoing push toward a cashless economy. With Indian tourism to Japan steadily increasing, the initiative aims to enhance convenience for travelers while strengthening merchant competitiveness through diversified payment solutions.
NTT DATA and NIPL will jointly explore opportunities to expand UPI-enabled payment acceptance across Japan, evaluating its benefits for both local merchants and consumers.
NTT DATA, a $30+ billion global technology and consulting powerhouse, serves 75% of Fortune Global 100 companies and operates in more than 50 countries. Known for its expertise in AI, cloud computing, data infrastructure, and enterprise solutions, the company continues to drive responsible innovation worldwide.
NPCI International, established in 2020 as NPCI’s global arm, focuses on exporting India’s proven payment innovations — UPI and RuPay — to international markets. Through partnerships, consulting, and licensing, NIPL assists countries in developing their own real-time payment ecosystems and advancing digital financial inclusion globally.
Together, NTT DATA and NIPL’s partnership marks a pivotal leap in global fintech collaboration — one that bridges India’s digital payment excellence with Japan’s evolving cashless landscape.
