Pakistan Launches Crypto Authority and Plans National Bitcoin Reserve

On July 14, Pakistan took a significant step into the world of digital finance by officially launching the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), a new government body tasked with regulating, licensing, and supervising all virtual asset service providers in the country. The move marks a strategic pivot by the Pakistani government toward integrating blockchain and crypto technology into its national financial infrastructure. The launch of PVARA follows the approval of the Virtual Assets Ordinance 2025, positioning the country as one of the few in South Asia with a dedicated legal framework for crypto oversight.

The announcement was made during a high-profile event in Islamabad, attended by key government officials, financial leaders, and international crypto experts. Pakistan’s Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, emphasized the country’s intent to move beyond regulation and toward innovation, while the newly appointed Minister of State for Digital Assets, Bilal Bin Saqib, pledged transparency, security, and growth in the sector. One of the most groundbreaking elements of the event was the government’s reveal of plans to establish a national Bitcoin reserve as part of its broader sovereign digital asset strategy.

Under the new initiative, the state will allocate 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity—previously underutilized—to power large-scale Bitcoin mining farms and AI data centers. These energy-intensive operations are expected to convert unused energy resources into tangible economic output while promoting financial inclusion. By leveraging Pakistan’s untapped hydro and solar potential, the government aims to attract foreign investment and stimulate job creation in the digital sector. The announcement was met with enthusiasm by both local and international crypto communities, who see Pakistan’s model as an innovative blend of regulation and productivity.

The government also announced the formation of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), a public-private think tank focused on shaping digital asset policies, promoting blockchain education, and ensuring compliance with international standards. The council will work closely with PVARA to align the country’s crypto infrastructure with FATF guidelines and regional regulatory frameworks. Pakistan’s new digital asset push has already caught the attention of global investors, with early signals of interest from fintech companies, blockchain developers, and mining firms.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition by Pakistani authorities that embracing crypto and blockchain can serve as a tool for economic revival, digital transformation, and greater integration into the global fintech ecosystem. By establishing strong oversight and welcoming innovation, Pakistan is positioning itself as a regional leader in virtual asset development. As the rollout of PVARA unfolds, market participants will be closely watching how the country balances security, decentralization, and growth in one of the world’s most promising emerging crypto markets.