Pakistan Launches National Crypto Council to Regulate Blockchain and Digital Assets
March 15, 2025 – Islamabad, Pakistan
In a landmark development for the nation, Pakistan has officially launched the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) to oversee the regulation and integration of blockchain technology and digital assets within its financial system. This initiative marks a significant move towards the country’s adoption of digital finance, positioning Pakistan as an emerging participant in the global shift towards digital currencies.
The formation of the PCC follows the recent appointment of Bilal bin Saqib as Chief Advisor to the Finance Minister for the management of digital assets. The new council is set to play a pivotal role in regulating, promoting, and incorporating innovations in blockchain and cryptocurrency into Pakistan’s economic framework.
Leadership and Structure
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb will lead the newly established council, which comprises a diverse board that includes the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the Federal Law Secretary, and the Federal IT Secretary. This collaborative structure aims to balance the regulatory oversight, financial stability, legal frameworks, and technological advancements necessary for a robust digital asset ecosystem.
During the launch event, Aurangzeb expressed Pakistan’s ambition to take a leadership role in the digital finance arena. "The establishment of the Pakistan Crypto Council is a step towards embracing innovation while ensuring we create a regulatory framework that protects investors and the financial system,” he stated. He further emphasized the country’s commitment to creating a responsible and progressive cryptocurrency environment that could bolster economic growth.
Objectives and Future Prospects
The council’s agenda focuses on establishing clear regulatory guidelines that will facilitate the adoption of cryptocurrencies across the nation. Additionally, it aims to engage with international crypto and blockchain organizations to integrate best practices and foster responsible innovation within the local context.
Bilal bin Saqib underscored the importance of the PCC, indicating that its role extends well beyond mere regulation. “We are looking to create an environment where blockchain and digital finance can thrive,” he said, highlighting the council’s focus on nurturing an ecosystem conducive to technological advancements and economic opportunity.
The announcement of the PCC comes at a time when countries around the world are reevaluating their positions on cryptocurrency regulation, following significant global shifts in the financial landscape. As Pakistan embarks on this new journey, the establishment of the PCC is seen as a pivotal step towards embracing digital finance, thus opening new avenues for economic development and innovation in the country.
As the Council prepares to set forth its regulatory framework and engage with international counterparts, it remains to be seen how these initiatives will shape the future of cryptocurrency in Pakistan and position the country on the global stage of digital finance.
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