Pakistan Moves to Legalize Crypto to Attract Foreign Investment

Pakistan is setting the stage for cryptocurrency legalization, aiming to create a clear regulatory framework to drive foreign investment and boost its growing digital asset ecosystem.

Despite past central bank warnings, crypto adoption in Pakistan ranks ninth globally, with 15-20 million active users, according to Chainalysis. The country, home to one of the world's youngest populations, sees Web3 as a key economic driver.

Pakistan’s Crypto Strategy

The legalization effort is being spearheaded by Bilal bin Saqib, newly appointed chief advisor to the finance ministerfor digital assets. In a recent interview, Saqib emphasized Pakistan’s strategic shift, highlighting the nation’s low-cost, high-growth market and a tech-savvy workforce primed for Web3 innovation.

"Pakistan is done sitting on the sidelines. We want to attract international investment and position ourselves as a global digital hub," Saqib stated.

Following the Global Crypto Wave

Pakistan’s move aligns with a broader shift in Asia’s stance on digital assets, following the pro-crypto policies of the U.S. under Donald Trump.

"Trump is making crypto a national priority, and every country, including Pakistan, will have to follow suit,"Saqib added.

In addition to crypto regulation, Pakistan is also exploring artificial intelligence (AI) applications to optimize government efficiency and decision-making, further positioning itself as a leader in digital transformation.