Central Bank seeks pan-European payment scheme operators for Malta adoption

The Central Bank of Malta has opened a formal call for expressions of interest, targeting operators of pan-European payment schemes, payment arrangements, and other payment solutions.

Interested parties are invited to submit their interest for consideration under the assessment and selection process established by the CBM Directive No. 21.

The Directive aims to facilitate the harmonised adoption in Malta of a pan-European payment scheme that supports peer-to-peer and point-of-interaction payments.

Its stated objective is to promote innovation, efficiency, and greater European integration in the retail payments landscape.

Operators must submit their expressions of interest by 2 December 2026, along with a completed questionnaire and the relevant supporting documentation, in accordance with the requirements set by the Bank.

For Malta's financial services sector, this move signals a push toward aligning local payment infrastructure with broader European standards, potentially opening the market to new entrants and reducing reliance on legacy systems.

Local businesses and consumers could benefit from more competitive and interoperable payment options if a pan-European scheme gains traction in the Maltese market.

The Central Bank has made further information available, including eligibility criteria, submission requirements, and relevant procedures, on its official website.