Private stations yet to adopt the service
Najaf embraces point-of-sale system at government-operated fuel stations
NAJAF — The Najaf Oil Products Distribution Company has begun using point-of-sale (POS) systems at government-owned fuel stations across the governorate, aiming to streamline transactions and improve customer experience.
The rollout, which began ten days ago, follows a successful trial period and addresses initial technical issues. Currently, ten stations in Najaf, including Old Al-Karrar, New Al-Karrar, Al-Haidariya, and Al-Mishkhab are equipped with POS devices and offer electronic card issuance services.
Nawar Al-Khafaji, media director of the Petroleum Products Office, explained the delay in implementing the system at private stations, attributing it to ongoing negotiations with supplying companies. He assured that the program will eventually encompass private stations and POS systems would be extended to gas agents, generator owners, pump operators, and more, aiming for a complete shift to electronic transactions by May 2024.
The initiative has received positive feedback from users, who appreciate the convenience and security of electronic payments, and for those wary of hidden fees, authorities have promised no additional charges at the pump.
Local resident Fadil Hameed praised the move, calling it a “civilized step” that would reduce reliance on cash and the risk of handling counterfeit bills. “Once a person uses the card once or twice, they will never go back,” he added.
Ahmad Al-Assami, another Najaf resident, said he was concerned about businesses’ ability to implement the system and workers’ readiness to adapt to new payment methods.
Al-Khafaji responded to the concerns, saying fuel station workers had gone through comprehensive training on how to facilitate electronic payments.
The transition to POS systems aligns with a broader national directive issued by the Iraqi Council of Ministers in January 2024. The directive mandates that electronic payment systems must be implemented across various sectors, including government entities, educational institutions, and private businesses including restaurants, pharmacies, and more.
The Central Bank of Iraq is also taking steps to facilitate the adoption of the systems by easing licensing procedures and reducing associated fees, including a tax exemption on all POS transactions.