The Central Bank of Samoa has approved FreedomPacific Samoa Limited to begin testing its new digital payment products, “PacWallex” and the “TickTap Card,” under its regulatory sandbox framework.

CBS said the approval reflects its commitment to supporting responsible financial innovation while maintaining the safety and stability of Samoa’s financial system.

PacWallex is a mobile-based digital wallet that allows users to securely store, send and receive electronic money. It can be used by individuals and businesses for payments to merchants, money transfers and everyday expenses such as utilities.

The TickTap Card is a contactless payment card linked to the PacWallex wallet, allowing users to make “tap and go” payments at participating merchants.

Testing of the two products will run for nine months, beginning 4 May 2026 and ending 3 February 2027. During this period, the services will operate in a controlled environment with user limits, transaction caps and other safeguards designed to manage risk.

The Central Bank of Samoa said the testing will take place under strict regulatory supervision, including protections for customer funds, data security requirements, transaction monitoring and formal processes for handling complaints and disputes.

Officials stressed that PacWallex and the TickTap Card are still in the testing phase and are not yet fully licensed financial services. Participation in the sandbox program is voluntary and limited.

The sandbox framework allows new financial products to be tested in a controlled setting before being approved for full commercial use, the central bank said. It is intended to encourage innovation, improve access to financial services and help regulators better understand emerging technologies while ensuring consumer protection.

The Central Bank of Samoa said the initiative is part of its broader goal to promote a modern, inclusive and resilient financial system, while supporting the safe development of digital payments in the country.