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Pakistan is taking a bold step into the world of digital assets by announcing plans to create a strategic Bitcoin reserve. This move, spearheaded by the government, signals a significant shift in the country’s approach to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.

Pakistan to Establish a National Bitcoin Wallet

During a recent appearance at the Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bilal Bin Saqib, the head of the newly-formed Pakistan Crypto Council, outlined the government’s plans. He revealed that Pakistan is setting up a national Bitcoin wallet to hold reserves for the long term. Saqib emphasized that this initiative is not driven by market speculation but is part of a broader state strategy. He assured that the government will “never, ever sell” the Bitcoin it accumulates, underscoring the commitment to this long-term plan.

Breaking Away from Past Skepticism

Pakistan’s decision to adopt Bitcoin represents a clear departure from its prior cautious stance on cryptocurrencies. According to Saqib, the initiative was inspired by the United States’ efforts to establish its own Bitcoin reserve. Pakistan aims to follow a similar trajectory, integrating blockchain technology into its financial infrastructure.

While the exact size of Pakistan’s planned Bitcoin holdings has not been disclosed, the government has made its intentions clear: acquire and retain Bitcoin as a strategic asset. It remains uncertain whether the Bitcoin will be purchased directly or acquired through alternative channels.

Blockchain Integration and Economic Modernization

In addition to Bitcoin reserves, Pakistan is making strides to incorporate blockchain technologies into its public and economic systems. Saqib confirmed that the government plans to allocate 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity toward Bitcoin mining operations and AI-driven data centers. This initiative aims to generate revenue, create jobs, and attract foreign investment, while also modernizing the country’s energy sector by utilizing stranded energy resources more effectively.

Regulatory Advancements: Pakistan Digital Assets Authority

To oversee the growing digital asset sector, Pakistan is establishing the Pakistan Digital Assets Authority (PDAA). Approved by the Ministry of Finance, the PDAA will be responsible for licensing and monitoring crypto exchanges, custodians, tokenization platforms, and other related services. This regulatory body is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s digital finance strategy and aims to position the country as a leader in financial innovation.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb described the PDAA as central to fostering innovation in the financial sector. Beyond regulatory oversight, the PDAA will explore opportunities such as tokenizing state assets, enabling blockchain-based debt issuance, and developing decentralized finance (DeFi) infrastructure.

Global Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships

The Pakistan Crypto Council, established earlier this year, has been instrumental in shaping these forward-thinking reforms. The Council has engaged with international stakeholders to build a robust blockchain ecosystem. Notably, Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao is now serving as a strategic advisor, assisting Pakistan in developing blockchain infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

Pakistan’s efforts to embrace cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology reflect a growing global trend of integrating digital assets into national economies. By creating a Bitcoin reserve and fostering an innovation-friendly environment, the country is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving financial landscape.

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