Pakistan is taking a bold step toward crypto adoption, with plans to use excess energy for Bitcoin mining as part of a broader push to attract foreign investment and establish itself as a key player in the global crypto market.
Pakistan Crypto Council Proposes Bitcoin Mining Initiative
At the inaugural meeting of Pakistan’s Crypto Council on March 21, CEO Bilal Bin Saqib proposed an innovative plan: utilizing surplus energy to mine Bitcoin (BTC). The meeting, attended by top government officials, financial regulators, and lawmakers, focused on shaping a regulatory framework for digital assets.
“This is the beginning of a new digital chapter for our economy,” said Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, emphasizing the government’s commitment to building a transparent, forward-thinking financial ecosystem that encourages investment and empowers young entrepreneurs.
A Major Shift in Pakistan’s Crypto Stance
This marks a huge departure from Pakistan’s previous anti-crypto stance. In May 2023, then-Finance Minister Aisha Ghaus Pasha firmly stated that crypto would never be legalized due to anti-money laundering concerns raised by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
However, a shift in global crypto policies, especially in the United States, appears to have influenced Pakistan’s new direction.
Following the U.S. in Embracing Crypto
On November 4, 2024, the same day as the U.S. elections, Pakistan moved to regulate cryptocurrencies as legal tender. The timing was significant, as President Donald Trump’s re-election brought a wave of pro-crypto policies in the U.S.
Shortly after his January 20 inauguration, Trump signed an executive order establishing a Working Group on Digital Assets to explore comprehensive regulatory reform. By March 2025, he had also ordered the creation of a Bitcoin strategic reserve and a digital asset stockpile that could include cryptocurrencies developed by U.S.-based companies.
What’s Next for Pakistan’s Crypto Industry?
With Pakistan now embracing crypto and exploring Bitcoin mining, the country is positioning itself to tap into the booming digital asset market. By leveraging excess energy for mining, Pakistan could stabilize its power grid, attract foreign investment, and boost its economy—a major win for a country that previously had a skeptical stance on digital assets.
Will This Move Make Pakistan a Global Crypto Leader?
With this shift, Pakistan could join the ranks of nations actively integrating crypto into their financial systems. The success of this initiative will depend on clear regulations, international partnerships, and the government’s ability to navigate challenges like energy management and security concerns.
