PM Shehbaz Demands Urgent Legalization of Crypto in Pakistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wants to fast-track the legalization of cryptocurrency in Pakistan.

He has directed authorities to make the regulatory framework for the virtual assets sector fully operational at the earliest, as part of efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy and boost investor confidence.

The directive was issued during a meeting with Minister of State and Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, Bilal Bin Saqib, where the prime minister emphasized aligning the framework with international standards to support sustainable growth.

He also highlighted the need to equip Pakistan’s youth with skills in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital finance, to meet future economic demands.

During the briefing, Bilal Bin Saqib informed the prime minister that PVARA is transitioning into a fully operational regulatory body and has launched a regulatory sandbox to support innovation in areas such as AI-powered payments and regulated virtual asset services.

Officials said the initiative is part of broader efforts to prepare national institutions, human capital, and regulatory structures for the next phase of economic transformation driven by digital technologies.