Pakistan’s Crypto Boom 2025: 20M Users & New Regulations Fuel Digital Asset Adoption

Pakistan’s Crypto Revolution: 20M Users & Regulatory Leap

Pakistan is witnessing an unprecedented surge in cryptocurrency adoption, with 15–20 million users now engaged in digital asset trading, mining, and blockchain investments—a 300% increase since 2023. This boom is driven by hyperinflation, remittance growth, and progressive regulations like the Virtual Assets Act 2025, positioning Pakistan as a top-10 global crypto market.

1. Crypto Adoption Skyrockets Amid Economic Crisis

• Youth-Driven Growth: With 70% of Pakistanis under 30, young investors are turning to crypto as a hedge against 38% inflation (2023 peak) and rupee devaluation.

• Remittances & Digital Payments: Overseas Pakistanis sent $3.2B in crypto-backed remittances in 2024, bypassing traditional banking fees.

• 40M Crypto Wallets: Pakistan ranks 5th globally in wallet usage, with platforms like Binance and Bybit dominating trades.

2. Virtual Assets Act 2025: A Regulatory Game-Changer

The government’s landmark Virtual Assets Act establishes:

• Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA): Licenses crypto firms, enforces FATF compliance, and combats fraud.

• Shariah-Compliant Crypto: A dedicated committee ensures Islamic finance compatibility.

• Bitcoin Mining Legalized: 2,000 MW of electricity allocated for mining and AI data centers8.

3. State-Backed Crypto Initiatives

• Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC): Led by Bilal Bin Saqib, the PCC is exploring:

  • A state-run Bitcoin reserve with Binance’s Changpeng Zhao as advisor.

  • Solar-powered mining to utilize surplus energy.

• Digital Rupee Pilot: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) plans a CBDC trial by late 2025.

4. Global Partnerships & Economic Shifts

• Kyrgyzstan Pact: Joint blockchain research and a $100M trade boost via crypto-friendly policies.

• US Endorsement: The Trump-backed Virtual Assets Ordinance 2025 legitimized crypto, attracting World Liberty Financial and other firms59.

5. Risks & Challenges

• Volatility Concerns: Bitcoin’s price swings (e.g., $35K to $70K in 2024) worry regulators.

• Energy Costs: Mining demands could strain Pakistan’s power grid without renewable solutions.

The Future: Can Pakistan Become a Crypto Hub?

With 20M users, clear regulations, and global partnerships, Pakistan is poised to lead South Asia’s crypto economy. The key will be balancing innovation with stability—ensuring the Virtual Assets Act fosters growth without stifling it.

What’s Next?

• CBDC rollout (2025–2026)

• PVARA licensing for exchanges & DeFi platforms

• Bitcoin mining farms powered by renewables

For updates, follow Dawn’s Crypto Desk | Pakistan Crypto Council.