Sampath Bank PLC has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first bank in Sri Lanka to offer integrated PayPal withdrawal and account connection features through its Sampath Vishwa platform. This development represents a noteworthy enhancement in the realm of digital banking in Sri Lanka, broadening access to secure international payment options.
The increase in Sri Lanka’s digitally engaged workforce and business sector is evident as they expand into global markets and cross-border industries. The rise of freelancing, entrepreneurship, online sales, exports, and remote employment has fueled the demand for reliable international payment solutions. In response, Sampath Bank’s partnership with PayPal aims to enhance financial connectivity between Sri Lanka and the worldwide economy, thereby facilitating foreign currency inflows into the nation.
Sanjaya Gunawardana, the Managing Director and CEO of Sampath Bank PLC, remarked on the initiative, stating, “Digital access should not hinder Sri Lankan talent from engaging in the global economy. Our alliance with PayPal is a significant move towards enabling individuals and businesses to confidently interact with international markets through secure and convenient banking options. Sampath Bank is dedicated to leading our customers into the future by providing meaningful digital innovations that foster entrepreneurship and bolster Sri Lanka’s evolving digital economy.”
Amir Valliani, Vice President and General Manager of PayPal, commented on the collaboration, saying, “The partnership with Sampath Bank is a pivotal step in enhancing secure and reliable access to global payment systems for Sri Lankan customers. This collaboration signifies a major achievement for Sri Lanka, enabling freelancers, entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses to easily tap into international opportunities and access their earnings with increased convenience and assurance. We are eager to support the growth of Sri Lanka’s digital economy and the talented communities that contribute to its global engagement.”
The integration allows users to securely connect their PayPal accounts to the Sampath Vishwa Mobile App, enabling direct withdrawals into their Sampath Bank accounts in either LKR or USD. New users without a PayPal account can easily set one up through the platform, streamlining access for those entering the global digital market for the first time.
This solution is tailored for freelancers, entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, exporters, online merchants, and digital professionals, offering a smooth experience while upholding the rigorous standards of security, reliability, and compliance associated with Sampath Bank’s digital services.
The initiative was made possible through extensive collaboration, regulatory engagement, and investments in digital infrastructure, ensuring alignment with evolving international payment standards. This launch further establishes Sampath Bank PLC as a forward-thinking banking authority committed to promoting digital adoption and providing innovative financial solutions that address emerging customer demands.
By empowering Sri Lankan individuals and businesses to compete and expand internationally with greater assurance, the initiative also supports the ongoing development of the country’s freelance, entrepreneurial, and export-driven sectors.
In line with its brand promise, “We Present Your Future,” Sampath Bank PLC continues to invest in banking solutions that enhance convenience, accessibility, and financial empowerment for customers throughout Sri Lanka.
Photo caption: Amir Valliani, Vice President and General Manager of PayPal, and Sanjaya Gunawardana, Managing Director/CEO of Sampath Bank PLC, at the official signing ceremony for the PayPal integration via Sampath Vishwa.
