The Payments Association of Namibia (PAN) has issued a warning to businesses that forcing customers to spend a minimum amount before paying with a debit or credit card is illegal and violates national payment regulations. The association clarified that once a business accepts card payments, it must allow customers to use their cards for any transaction amount, without discrimination. Examples of prohibited practices:
A café refusing to accept card payments for purchases below N$50.
A retail shop charging an extra N$5 for every card payment made.
Any business that only allows cash for small transactions while accepting cards for larger amounts.
I have been asked by a radio station:
Please send us commentary via a voicenote:
- Do you welcome this move by PAN?
- How does this protect consumers?
Good morning, and thank you for the question.
Yes, I absolutely welcome this move by the Payments Association of Namibia. For years, consumers have been quietly carrying the cost of unfair card‑payment practices—whether it’s being told to buy more than they need, or being charged extra simply because they choose to pay with a card. PAN’s clarification finally puts an end to that confusion.
Once a business decides to accept card payments, they must accept them for any amount. No minimum purchase, no extra fees, no discrimination. This is not just a technical rule—it’s a protection of basic consumer rights.
This move protects consumers in three important ways:
First, it stops unfair extra charges. A consumer shouldn’t pay more simply because they prefer a safer, traceable payment method.
Second, it prevents forced spending. No one should be pressured to buy more than they need just to meet a minimum card amount.
Third, it promotes safety and convenience. Many Namibians choose cards to avoid carrying cash. Businesses cannot punish consumers for choosing the safer option.
At the end of the day, this is about fairness. If a business offers card payments, they must offer them equally to everyone, for every transaction. PAN’s stance strengthens transparency in the market and ensures that consumers are treated with dignity.
