Pakistan is on the verge of a significant transformation in its financial landscape as it prepares to legalize cryptocurrency trading. This move is set to position the country as a burgeoning hub for digital assets and Web3 technologies. With an estimated 15 to 20 million Pakistanis already engaged in cryptocurrency activities, the government’s initiative reflects a response to the growing domestic interest and global trends in digital finance.
Historically, Pakistani authorities have exhibited caution towards cryptocurrencies, primarily due to concerns over fraud, money laundering, and financial instability. However, the substantial local adoption and the global shift towards digital currencies have prompted a reevaluation of this stance. In March 2025, the government established the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, to draft comprehensive crypto regulations and ensure alignment with international standards. The council comprises key figures such as the governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and federal IT and law secretaries. The PCC’s primary objectives include formulating clear regulatory guidelines for crypto trading, safeguarding investor interests, promoting blockchain innovation across various sectors, and collaborating with international crypto organizations to adopt best practices.
The legalization of cryptocurrency trading is anticipated to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. By integrating blockchain technology into its economy, Pakistan aims to capitalize on the potential of digital assets to revolutionize various sectors. Bilal bin Saqib, the newly appointed Chief Advisor to the Finance Minister for the Pakistan Crypto Council, emphasized the country’s commitment to regulatory clarity and a pro-business legal framework. He highlighted Pakistan’s competitive advantage as a low-cost, high-growth market, with 60% of its population under the age of 30, making it an attractive destination for crypto businesses compared to established hubs like Dubai and Singapore.
In addition to regulatory developments, Pakistan has been proactive in embracing Web3 technologies. In October 2022, NARSUN Studios, the country’s largest Unreal Engine gaming studio, announced ‘The Cloud City Metaverse’ (TCCM), marking Pakistan’s entry into the metaverse. Built on Unreal Engine 5, TCCM offers users an immersive experience, allowing them to own virtual land, build structures, and rent them out. This platform represents a fusion of Web3 and NFTs, providing a digital world where users have autonomy over their content and assets. TCCM aims to revolutionize various industries, including fintech, education, health, and construction, by offering a virtual landscape for businesses to operate and engage with customers.
Educational initiatives have also been a focal point in Pakistan’s journey towards becoming a Web3 hub. Fasset, a globally regulated digital assets gateway, partnered with the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) to educate one million Pakistani youth on Web3 and digital assets. This collaboration aims to align academic research with commercial needs, preparing the younger generation for the technological revolution of Web3.0. The partnership includes awareness-raising initiatives, internships, job opportunities, and joint organization of international conferences, all geared towards fueling Pakistan’s tech ecosystem and fostering innovation in blockchain and Web3 technologies.
At the provincial level, Punjab has taken significant strides by launching a Web 3.0 portal, becoming the first province in Pakistan to introduce the third generation of the World Wide Web. This initiative facilitates the registration of Web 3.0 contributors, including researchers, scientists, and IT industry experts, fostering a community geared towards technological advancement. The adoption of Web 3.0 is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance various sectors such as tourism, education, government services, retail, and real estate. The Punjab government’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to integrating advanced technologies for the province’s development.
The global political landscape has also influenced Pakistan’s shift towards cryptocurrency adoption. The return of US President Donald Trump, who has been actively reshaping digital asset policies and making crypto a national priority, has prompted nations, including Pakistan, to reconsider their stance on digital assets. Trump’s administration has overhauled the crypto arm of the US Securities and Exchange Commission, appointed a crypto czar, and formed a committee to explore the possibility of creating a national digital asset stockpile. These developments have created a ripple effect, encouraging countries like Pakistan to align with the evolving global crypto ecosystem.
Furthermore, Pakistan’s economic challenges have played a role in the decision to legalize cryptocurrency trading. The country has been a frequent recipient of International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans, with the latest being a $7 billion package approved in September 2024. By bringing crypto trading into a regulated framework, the government aims to introduce new revenue streams through taxation of capital gains and trading activities, thereby reducing fiscal deficits and reliance on external borrowing. The IMF has suggested that Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue incorporate crypto gains into the country’s tax net to assist in covering bailout debts, highlighting the potential of digital assets to contribute to economic stability.
Pakistan’s move to legalize cryptocurrency trading and its broader embrace of Web3 technologies signify a pivotal shift towards digital modernization. By establishing a regulatory framework, promoting educational initiatives, and fostering technological innovation, Pakistan aims to position itself as a competitive player in the global digital economy. These efforts reflect a strategic vision to harness the potential of digital assets, stimulate economic growth, and integrate into the rapidly evolving landscape of global finance.
