Pakistan Creates National Crypto Council — First of Its Kind in South Asia
In a move signaling regional leadership on digital assets, Pakistan has officially launched a Crypto Council, the first government-backed body of its kind in South Asia. Established in March 2025 and chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) is tasked with designing regulatory frameworks and promoting blockchain adoption across industries.
The council includes VIP advisors such as Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao, and collaborates with institutions like the IMF and the Financial Action Task Force. It follows India’s intensifying tax enforcement, suggesting the subcontinent is becoming a hotbed of crypto regulation and innovation.
Why It Matters Regionally and Globally
Key dynamics at play:
- Volume and participation: With an estimated 40 million crypto users and over $300 billion in annual trading, Pakistan’s market demands structured oversight. PCC is expected to bridge that gap without stifling innovation.
- Balancing compliance with growth: Unlike reactive crackdowns, PCC aims for a framework that supports fintech startups and blockchain pilots—while enforcing transparency.
- Big-name credibility: The appointment of Zhao gives the council instant gravitas, signaling that Pakistan is open for business with major crypto players.
This initiative positions Pakistan ahead of many larger economies and underscores Asia’s rising influence in global crypto policymaking.
What to Watch Next
- Draft regulations by Q4 2025: The council is expected to propose statutes covering digital asset licensing, taxation, and AML/KYC frameworks.
- Pilot programs: Sectors like agriculture, microfinance, and remittances could see early blockchain deployments.
- Investor sentiment: Regulatory clarity tends to attract stable capital. PCC’s tone, therefore, may shape Pakistan’s crypto narrative for years.
Comments