Overview
Lebanon’s financial sector took a significant hit in recent years due to the financial and economic crisis along with political instability. Consequently, many players seized this opportunity to try to regain the market by conducting a digital revolution. Therefore, Lebanon witnessed the launch of dozens of companies offering a wide range of digital services from e-wallets to fintech platforms. Several banks and money transfer operators, which were heavily reliant on cash due to the financial crisis, are now actively working to promote digital solutions. This competition is driving innovation and lowering costs for consumers. They recognized the need to provide their customers more convenient and efficient payment options. Thus, they launched initiatives to educate customers about the benefits of digital payments and introduced new digital products and services. By embracing digital transformation, these traditional players are playing a crucial role in shifting Lebanon’s economy towards a more digital future.
Moreover, Lebanon’s young population, skilled workforce and strong entrepreneurial culture are key factors driving the growth of the digital economy. They are more likely to adapt to new technologies and embrace digital solutions, as this is reflected in the high adoption rate of smartphones. Moreover, the high internet penetration rate, estimated at 90 percent as per Global Digital Reports, paves the ground towards embracing digital financial services. In addition, Lebanon’s attraction to tourists, fueled by a large diaspora, presents a significant opportunity for digital payments, such as credit cards and mobile wallets, for convenience and security.
Market Challenges
While the potential of digital economy is significant, many challenges exist such as infrastructure limitations, political instability, absence of a national strategy and lack of government’s investment. Another major challenge facing Lebanon’s digital economy is the persistent reliance on cash due to a lack of trust in the banking system. Many Lebanese became unbanked with no access to formal financial services. This limits the potential for digital payments and creates a barrier to financial inclusion.
As the population became strongly reliant on cash, the World Bank estimated that the size of the cash economy has reached 45.7 percent of the GDP in 2022, compared to 5.6 percent in 2015 and 14.2 percent in 2020. Moreover, as per the World Bank, the number of bank accounts decreased from 77.3 accounts per 100 adults in 2010 to 46.9 accounts per 100 adults in 2021. Bank accounts’ numbers are expected to decrease with the recent emergence of strong digital players who have led to the successful opening of more than 1 million accounts.
Regulatory Environment
A proactive regulator is essential for fostering a digital economy. To facilitate digital transformation, the government should streamline its processes, adopt digital technologies, and create a favorable regulatory environment for businesses. Moreover, the government should encourage the adoption of digital payments by accepting them for public services to reduce reliance on cash.
The Central Bank of Lebanon CBL started to allow the adoption of E-KYC onboarding on a case-by-case approach in 2020, and adopted E-KYC onboarding in a circular issued to banks and financial institutions in 2023. Additionally, CBL issued circulars allowing P2P transfers subject to strict limits. More circulars and laws remain necessary to fully adopt electronic signatures and electronic transactions, allowing companies to provide the same services offered by traditional institutions through digital channels. Furthermore, CBL granted licenses to previous players who complied with the new regulations and issued dozens of new e-wallet licenses to different companies in order for them to launch fully digital solutions.
Digital Trade Barriers
Lebanon faces serious barriers to digital trade. Power outages, inconsistent internet connectivity, and limited broadband penetration hinder the widespread adoption of digital technologies. Consistent and reliable electricity supply is essential for the operation of digital infrastructure and businesses. Reforms in the electricity sector are necessary to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply. Moreover, a reliable and affordable telecommunications infrastructure is crucial for a digital economy. Lebanon’s telecom sector has faced challenges which paused all ongoing investments in fiber-optic networks and the expansion of 4G coverage, as well as the launch of the 5G network that aimed at improving connectivity. Moreover, the requirement set by CBL for digital players to host their data locally and avoid cloud-based solutions presents a significant barrier to innovation and scalability. These regulations can limit access to advanced technologies and deter international investors from entering the Lebanese market.\
Fintech and E-commerce
Fintech is well positioned to play a crucial role in addressing the challenges caused by the devaluation of the Lebanese lira. The difficulty of carrying large amounts of cash due to hyperinflation has made digital payments a necessity for many Lebanese citizens. Fintech solutions, such as mobile wallets and digital banking, offer a more convenient and secure way to transact. The rise of e-commerce in Lebanon is another major trend driving the growth of the digital economy. As more people shop online, there is a growing demand for secure and convenient payment options. Digital payment gateways and platforms can facilitate e-commerce transactions and boost the country’s economy.
Education
A strong educational foundation is paramount for a thriving digital economy. Lebanon’s educational system has historically produced qualified professionals, especially in the tech sector. However, the country has faced some challenges in retaining talent. Many skilled individuals have sought opportunities abroad due to economic and political uncertainties although many universities and companies have been creating a conducive environment for startups and entrepreneurs in order to encourage graduates to remain in the country and contribute to its digital growth.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is an increasingly vital aspect of any digital economy. Lebanon has demonstrated some expertise in cybersecurity, but the sector has often been overlooked. Unfortunately, the country has also experienced a high number of cyberattacks on private records held by government, on government websites. To mitigate these risks, Lebanon must invest in cybersecurity infrastructure, develop a skilled workforce, and implement robust regulations to protect sensitive data.