Key Takeaways

• Pakistan has announced the creation of a government-led Bitcoin Strategic Reserve at the Bitcoin 2025 Conference.

• In March 2025, Pakistan proposed using surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining as part of its economic development plan.

• The State Bank of Pakistan Act was amended in November 2024 to recognize cryptocurrencies as legal tender.

• A regulatory framework is being developed to balance innovation, compliance, and investor protection.

• Challenges such as regulatory implementation and public education remain essential for long-term success.

A New Era For Crypto In Pakistan

Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), officially announced that Pakistan is indeed forming a strategic Bitcoin reserve. The announcement was made at the high-profile Bitcoin 2025 Conference in Las Vegas, USA.

Bilal Bin Saqid Announcing Pakistan’s Bitcoin Reserve

Source: X (@cryptocouncilpk)

Saqib declared:

“Today is a very historic day. The Pakistani government is setting up its own government-led Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, and we want to thank the United States of America again because we were inspired by them.”

 

From Rejection To Adoption

Just a year ago, Pakistan’s official position was firmly against crypto. In May 2023, then-Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus Pasha reiterated that the government would never legalize digital assets, citing concerns around AML practices and Pakistan’s obligations to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

However, the landscape changed dramatically following the U.S. presidential election results in November 2024. Influenced by the pro-crypto agenda of the Trump administration, Pakistan amended the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Act to recognize cryptocurrencies as legal tender. 

Tapping into Surplus Energy

In March 2025, Bilal Bin Saqib proposed a bold initiative to utilize Pakistan’s surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining. The idea is to convert unused energy into a profitable, decentralized digital asset production ecosystem.

Pakistan Allocating 2,000MW Of Electricity To BTC Mining

Source: X (@BTC_Archive)

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb said:

“This is the beginning of a new chapter for our economy. We are committed to building a transparent, future-ready financial ecosystem that attracts investment, empowers our youth, and puts Pakistan on the global map as a leader in emerging technologies.”

The Pakistan Crypto Council’s Role

The formation of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) has been instrumental in the country’s rapid policy turnaround. Under Saqib’s leadership, the council has worked closely with lawmakers, regulators, and global experts to design a regulatory ecosystem that balances innovation and compliance.

Inspired by the U.S., But With Local Innovations

Bilal made it clear that Pakistan’s new strategy is deeply inspired by the U.S., especially its push for integrating digital assets into the mainstream financial system under the Trump-era policy direction.

However, Pakistan’s approach is being tailored to its unique energy landscape, economic challenges, and talent pool.

A Geopolitical & Economic Play

With countries like El Salvador and the UAE already investing heavily in crypto infrastructure, Pakistan’s move is both an economic strategy and a geopolitical statement. By embracing Bitcoin, Pakistan is:

• Diversifying its foreign currency reserves.
• Reducing reliance on traditional fiat-based economic models.
• Positioning itself as a tech-forward nation in South Asia.
  

Challenges Ahead: Regulation, Education, & Adoption

Navigating The Regulatory Landscape

Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain. Regulatory clarity and enforcement will be crucial to avoid misuse and maintain international credibility. The government must also work to build institutional capacity within agencies like the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and SBP.

Public Awareness & Education

To ensure widespread adoption, Pakistan must launch nationwide awareness campaigns about crypto risks and benefits. Academic institutions, fintech incubators, and public-private partnerships can play a key role in building a crypto-literate society.

As Bilal aptly said:

“This is the beginning of a new digital chapter, and if Pakistan can navigate the complexities ahead, this chapter could redefine its financial destiny for generations to come.”

FAQ

What is the Pakistan Bitcoin Strategic Reserve?

The Pakistan Bitcoin Strategic Reserve is a government-led initiative to accumulate Bitcoin as a financial asset. It is intended to strengthen national reserves, diversify the economy, and promote innovation in digital finance.

Why did Pakistan change its stance on cryptocurrency?

The shift was influenced by global trends and the pro-crypto stance of the United States, particularly after the 2024 elections. The potential for economic growth, investment, and energy optimization also contributed to the change.

Is cryptocurrency now legal in Pakistan?

Yes. In November 2024, Pakistan amended the SBP Act, formally recognizing cryptocurrencies as legal tender and enabling a legal and regulatory framework for their use.

What role does the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) play?

The PCC is the main advisory and policy body overseeing Pakistan’s crypto ecosystem. It helps shape regulatory strategies, advise the government, and engage with global crypto leaders.

How does Bitcoin mining benefit Pakistan?

Pakistan plans to leverage surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining, turning unused energy into economic value. This could create jobs, attract foreign investment, and boost local technological capabilities.