Indonesia vs Egypt · Real-time payment systems compared
| Capability | BI-FAST | InstaPay EG |
|---|---|---|
| QR Code Payments | — | ◐ |
| Wallet Support | — | — |
| 24/7 Availability | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cross-Border | — | — |
| ISO 20022 | ✓ | ✓ |
| Request to Pay | — | — |
| Open API | ◐ | ◐ |
| Alias/Proxy | ✓ | ✓ |
Indonesia's real-time interbank transfer system launched by Bank Indonesia to replace the aging BI-RTGS for retail payments. BI-FAST supports 24/7 instant account-to-account transfers via bank account number or proxy ID across banks, fintech firms, and e-money providers. Built on ISO 20022 messaging with a modern API-based architecture, it is one of two key payment rails in Indonesia alongside QRIS (the QR standard). BI-FAST aims to be the backbone of Indonesia's digital financial infrastructure for its 280M population.
Egypt's instant payment network launched by the Central Bank of Egypt as part of its financial inclusion and digital transformation strategy. InstaPay enables 24/7 real-time transfers via mobile number, national ID, or account number across banks, mobile wallets, and payment service providers. With Egypt's large unbanked population (~65%), the system plays a critical role in bringing digital payments to the masses. It supports P2P, P2M, and government-to-person disbursements with growing merchant QR adoption.