The remarks indicate Pakistan’s initiative to transition its grassroots cryptocurrency activities into a regulated and innovation-friendly sector, relying on Bitcoin and digital assets.
Bilal Bin Saqib remarked at the Bitcoin MENA Conference that Pakistan aims to leverage its 240 million citizens by establishing Bitcoin and digital assets as the foundation of a new financial system. He stressed: “We see Bitcoin, digital assets, and blockchain not just as speculation but as infrastructure. Not as noise, but as a foundation of a new financial rail for the global south.”
As Chairman of the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA), he emphasized the importance of transforming Pakistan’s unregulated crypto market into a compliant environment and urged for proactive regulatory measures to attract investments.
Given that 70% of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, he pointed out that the country is positioned to build a robust crypto ecosystem rather than being a follower in this technological race. He also referenced El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin as a benchmark for what Pakistan could achieve with its larger population and emerging digital economy.
Growth of cryptocurrency in Pakistan
Pakistan has gained recognition as one of the fastest-growing crypto markets globally, ranking third in Chainalysis’ 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index. Moreover, the country is set to introduce a strategic Bitcoin reserve and is progressing toward more favorable regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrency.
In response to the increasing demand for Bitcoin mining, Pakistan has allocated 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity to support AI data centers and cryptocurrency infrastructure, with the goal of attracting foreign investments.
In September, Pakistan also welcomed international crypto companies to apply for licenses under its new regulatory framework, indicating a significant shift in its approach to digital assets.
Related: Fiat Inflation Drives Global Crypto Adoption
Derar Islim and Bilal Bin Saqib at the Bitcoin 2025 MENA Conference
Derar Islim (left) and Bilal Bin Saqib (right). Source: Bitcoin Magazine
