- India’s digital payments revolution has achieved another milestone with the launch of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at Galeries Lafayette Nice Massena, one of France’s most iconic retail destinations.
- The launch was announced by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who said the initiative would further strengthen economic and technological cooperation between India and France.
- The move expands UPI’s international presence and enables Indian tourists and travellers to make seamless payments abroad using familiar mobile payment applications.
UPI Launches at Galeries Lafayette in Nice
UPI was officially launched at Galeries Lafayette Nice Massena, the Nice branch of the renowned French department store chain.
Located near the famous Place Massena, the store is among the city’s premier shopping destinations and hosts:
- More than 600 international brands.
- Fashion and luxury products.
- Beauty and lifestyle stores.
- Dining and entertainment outlets.
Indian travellers visiting the store can now make payments through UPI-enabled applications, just as they do in India.
UPI Now Available in Nine Countries
With the latest expansion, UPI is now accepted in nine countries, allowing Indian travellers to make secure and convenient payments abroad.
These countries are:
- Singapore
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- France
- Mauritius
- Nepal
- Bhutan
- Qatar
- Sri Lanka
- Cambodia
The international rollout is helping transform UPI from a domestic payment system into a global digital payments network.
Why UPI’s Global Expansion Matters
UPI has emerged as one of the world’s most successful digital payment systems.
Its international expansion offers several advantages:
Seamless Payments for Travellers
Indian tourists can:
- Pay using familiar UPI apps.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Reduce dependence on foreign cards.
Stronger Fintech Diplomacy
The expansion showcases India’s leadership in:
- Digital public infrastructure.
- Financial technology.
- Cross-border payment innovation.
Boost to Tourism and Trade
International acceptance of UPI:
- Simplifies transactions for travellers.
- Enhances tourism experiences.
- Strengthens economic ties with partner countries.
India-France Relations Get a Digital Boost
The launch also highlights the growing partnership between India and France.
In recent years, the two countries have expanded cooperation in:
- Trade and investment
- Defence
- Artificial intelligence
- Space technology
- Digital payments
- Innovation and startups
The introduction of UPI at Galeries Lafayette adds another important dimension to this strategic relationship.
Conclusion
The launch of UPI at Galeries Lafayette Nice Massena is another landmark achievement for India’s digital payments ecosystem.
Following its successful debut at the Eiffel Tower, UPI is steadily expanding its global footprint and transforming how Indian travellers make payments abroad.
As India continues to export its digital public infrastructure to the world, UPI is emerging as a symbol of the country’s technological innovation and growing global influence.