In a landmark move that positions Pakistan at the forefront of digital finance innovation, the government has unveiled its first Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. This initiative, announced by Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, marks a significant step in integrating cryptocurrency into the nation's financial framework.
The announcement was made during Saqib's keynote address at the Bitcoin Vegas 2025 conference in Las Vegas, attended by prominent figures including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Eric Trump, and Donald Trump Jr. Saqib emphasized Pakistan's transformation into a forward-looking hub of digital innovation, driven by its youthful population and a commitment to embracing decentralized finance.
The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will consist of digital assets already in state custody, serving as a sovereign reserve to demonstrate long-term confidence in decentralized financial systems. This move aligns with global trends, as nations explore the integration of cryptocurrencies into their economic strategies.
To support this initiative, the government has allocated 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity for bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence data centers. This allocation aims to attract sovereign miners, technology firms, and clean energy partners, fostering a robust ecosystem for digital asset growth.
Pakistan's commitment to digital finance is further evidenced by the establishment of the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA). This regulatory body will oversee the development of a comprehensive, FATF-compliant framework for digital assets, ensuring investor protection and the formalization of digital finance practices.
With over 40 million crypto wallets and a vibrant freelancer economy, Pakistan is poised to leverage its digital infrastructure to attract global investment and innovation in the cryptocurrency space.
This strategic move not only signals Pakistan's entry into the global crypto economy but also underscores its commitment to embracing technological advancements to drive economic growth and financial inclusion.