Digitization of payment methods in the Spanish Public Sector 2024 (II edition)

The second edition of the report “Digitization of payment methods in the Spanish Public Sector”, prepared by Payment Innovation Hub and Afi, in collaboration with CaixaBank and Visa, confirms that 60% of citizens and companies in Spain prefer to carry out their transactions with public administrations digitally. This study highlights the growth of online payments and the decrease in the use of cash, in a context of digitalization that positions Spain in a prominent place within the European Union.

The research carried out focuses on the transformative role of digitalization within the public sector in Spain, emphasizing payment methods and proposes measures to move forward by putting the citizen at the center. The study confirms the growth of online transactions and the decrease in cash payments. According to the study data, 64% of the Spanish population has basic digital skills, exceeding the EU average (54%) and in terms of digital public services, Spain occupies fifth place in the EU with a score of 83.5, well above the EU average (67.3). However, technical barriers remain, such as the need to unify processes across platforms, expand identification options, and improve website accessibility.

The report shows in a first block the evolution and current situation of digital payments in the Public Sector; And in a second block, the research collects the preferences and obstacles in the user experience of citizens and companies in relation to the Administration, with special emphasis on proactive measures to move towards a more accessible, safe and efficient model. Likewise, a roadmap is offered with recommendations based on good practices, with the aim of promoting public-private collaboration to move towards the modernization and digital maturity of public services.