eCommerce in Lesotho is experiencing gradual growth, driven by increasing internet access, mobile penetration, and growing demand. While the sector is still developing it presents opportunities for businesses. The Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) provides legal framework on electronic funds. The Financial Institution Act of 2012, Payment Systems Act, 2014 and Payment Systems (Issuance of Electronic Payments Instruments) Regulations, 2017 are some of the legal tools governing electronic transactions. In 2024, the CBL launched the National Payments Switch (Leswitch) aimed at integration of various payment systems, including point-of-sale terminals, ATMs, mobile payments, and online platforms to enhance speed and reduce costs while promoting access to digital financial services across the country.  

Electronic commerce (e-commerce) is not widely used in Lesotho; a small but growing percentage of the population has access to the Internet. For more information on e-payments contact the CBL at: paymentsettlements@centralbank.org.ls or visit their website: centralbank.org.ls. The Ministry of Communications has developed proposals for commerce to be more widely developed.  Electronic funds transfers are limited to $10,000 per transaction for transfers to local bank accounts; for external bank accounts the limit is $50 million. Lesotho’s digital economy readiness is assessed in the Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA) Digital Economy Benchmark, where it ranks 9 out 16 SADC countries which reflects a moderate level of digital infrastructure and capabilities that support marketing activities.