Singapore-based Thunes announced that it has opened a new real-time payments corridor with Colombia.
This move connects the country’s instant payment system Bre-B to Thunes’ global network to enable faster, more reliable, and accessible cross-border transfers.
The launch marks another step in Thunes’ efforts to link national real-time payment systems and support financial inclusion through faster, interoperable, and affordable transactions.
Developed by Banco de la República, Colombia’s central bank, Bre-B was officially launched on 6 October and allows individuals and businesses to send and receive money instantly, 24/7, between banks, cooperatives, digital wallets, and fintechs.
The addition of Bre-B also reflects Thunes’ collaboration with central banks and regulators working to modernise national payment systems and broaden access to financial products.
More than 30 million Colombians, representing about 76% of the adult population, have already registered for Bre-B.
Thunes is among the first global payment providers to integrate with the system, enabling real-time transfers in and out of Colombia for members of its Direct Global Network.
Colombia’s financial landscape is shifting rapidly, with nearly 78% of transactions still cash-based and 92% of adults owning bank accounts.
The integration with Bre-B is expected to accelerate this transition and expand access to digital financial services.
“Across the world, Thunes is deeply engaged in building and connecting Real-Time Payment systems that enable people and businesses to move money instantly, securely, and transparently.
We greatly value the vision and leadership of central banks, like Colombia’s, that are driving innovations to make financial systems more inclusive and interoperable. Together with Bre-B, we’re helping to power Colombia’s participation in the real-time global economy and set a new benchmark for interoperable payments in the region.”
said Chloé Mayenobe, President and COO at Thunes.
“Our addition of Bre-B to Thunes’ Direct Global Network is a strong example of how public and private innovation can come together to drive financial transformation.
Through this extension of our Network, we are proud to help expand Bre-B’s reach beyond Colombia’s borders, giving local people and businesses access to the global economy.”
said Aik Boon Tan, Chief Network Officer at Thunes.
Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Lanfira via Freepik
