Several countries have implemented requirements for restaurants to include QR codes on their receipts, often as part of broader initiatives to enhance tax compliance and streamline payment processes. Among these countries, Saudi Arabia stands out as a prominent example.
Saudi Arabia has mandated that all restaurant receipts must include QR codes. This requirement is part of the country’s efforts to improve its tax system and ensure accurate reporting of sales and VAT (Value Added Tax). The QR code on the receipt typically includes detailed information such as the company name, order number, date, time, sales amount, tax amount, and total invoice amount. This system is designed to enhance transparency and reduce tax evasion by allowing both customers and tax authorities to easily access and verify transaction details using the QR code​​​​.
China has also embraced the use of QR codes extensively, though the implementation is more focused on payments rather than receipts. In many restaurants, QR codes are used to facilitate payments via popular platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Customers can scan a QR code at the table or checkout counter to complete their transactions quickly and conveniently​​.
India follows a similar approach with the Bharat QR code, which integrates various payment systems into a single QR code that customers can scan to pay directly from their bank accounts. This system is particularly popular in restaurants and retail outlets, streamlining the payment process and reducing the need for cash transactions​​.
In Singapore, a unified QR code system has been introduced, which allows customers to use a single QR code for multiple payment options. This unified system simplifies the payment process and enhances customer convenience by consolidating various payment methods into one QR code, which can be scanned to complete transactions using different payment apps​​.
South Korea is another country where QR codes are widely used in the restaurant industry, although the specific regulatory requirements can vary. QR codes are commonly used to facilitate mobile payments and digital receipts, improving operational efficiency and customer experience.
These implementations highlight a growing trend towards digitalization and enhanced efficiency in the restaurant industry globally. The adoption of QR codes on receipts and for payments reflects broader technological advancements and regulatory measures aimed at improving transparency, convenience, and compliance in financial transactions.
Overall, while Saudi Arabia has a clear regulatory mandate for QR codes on restaurant receipts, other countries like China, India, and Singapore leverage QR codes more for payment facilitation and consumer convenience. The integration of QR codes in these countries’ financial systems indicates a significant shift towards digitalization in the global restaurant industry.
