In a groundbreaking move that underscores a shift in its financial and regulatory outlook, Pakistan has announced the establishment of its first government-led strategic Bitcoin reserve. The announcement was made by Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), during his address at the Bitcoin 2025 Conference. The declaration marks a significant pivot from Pakistan’s earlier position, where the government had firmly opposed the legalization of cryptocurrencies.
Speaking to an international audience, Saqib credited the United States as the inspiration behind the decision. “Today is a very historic day. Today, I announce 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,” he said. The strategic reserve initiative is modeled after similar developments in the U.S., particularly under the current pro-crypto Trump administration, which has promoted policies encouraging digital asset adoption.
Pakistan’s decision to move forward with a Bitcoin reserve is part of a broader shift in its approach to digital assets and blockchain technology. This pivot comes after years of skepticism and regulatory resistance. As recently as May 2023, the government, through then-Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus Pasha, had reiterated its opposition to legalizing cryptocurrencies, citing compliance issues with anti-money laundering regulations and obligations under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) framework.
However, the country’s stance began to evolve following the U.S. presidential elections in late 2024. On November 4, 2024, Pakistan amended the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Act, officially recognizing cryptocurrencies as legal tender. This legislative shift laid the foundation for broader crypto integration into Pakistan’s financial system and allowed the government to explore innovative avenues for economic development.
Earlier this year, in March, Saqib proposed an ambitious plan to use Pakistan’s surplus energy to power Bitcoin mining operations. By redirecting unused electricity toward digital asset production, the government aims to unlock new economic potential and attract international investment. This approach not only addresses inefficiencies in the national energy grid but also positions Pakistan as a serious player in the global digital economy.
Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb voiced support for this vision, stating, “This is the beginning of a new digital 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 formation of the Pakistan Crypto Council and the announcement of a strategic reserve represent more than just policy shifts—they mark the country’s formal entry into the digital asset space. These developments signal Pakistan’s readiness to embrace decentralized finance and blockchain innovation as tools for economic transformation.
As global interest in digital assets continues to grow, Pakistan’s strategic Bitcoin reserve and its evolving regulatory landscape may serve as a blueprint for other emerging economies seeking to harness the potential of cryptocurrency.
