Pakistan Heading Toward Legalizing CBDC and Digital Asset Token Issuance

Reportedly, Pakistan is planning to legalize the crypto sector, but in reality, it appears to be focusing on the use of blockchain technology specifically for Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) development.

Pakistan’s population has shown a growing interest in Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, driven by factors like a large unbanked population, rising inflation, and a strong desire for financial inclusion. Despite regulatory uncertainties, crypto adoption has surged, with young Pakistanis increasingly exploring digital assets for investment and remittances.

A recent report by The Express Tribune confirmed that an amendment in Pakistan will grant the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) the authority to issue digital currency and manage the country’s money in both physical and digital forms. No date for the approval or related cabinet meeting was mentioned in the official statement.

In essence, if the amendments are passed, Pakistan’s central bank would gain the power to issue a Pakistani sovereign fiat currency on a blockchain network. This points to Pakistan moving toward the creation of a CBDC. Meanwhile, many top crypto news sites have reported that Pakistan is planning to regulate the crypto sector, though it seems these reports may be misleading.

Some media predict that SBP’s growing inclination toward blockchain technology could eventually lead to a more open attitude towards the crypto and blockchain sectors, potentially driving efforts to establish regulations for crypto within Pakistan’s jurisdiction.

Historically, Pakistan has taken cautious steps regarding the crypto sector, with the State Bank imposing a cryptocurrency ban. However, recent steps signal an exploration of blockchain’s potential and a possible move toward creating regulatory frameworks. This dual approach reflects Pakistan’s careful balancing of innovation and financial stability.

Some crypto experts suggest that Pakistan may adopt a regulatory approach similar to India’s, where the government initially kept decisions on crypto regulation under wraps, then introduced a 30% tax on each crypto transaction, leaving the Crypto sector unregulated.

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