Key Takeaways
Immediate Appointment with Ministerial Rank
Bilal Bin Saqib has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on blockchain and crypto, effective immediately under Rule 4(6) of the 1973 Rules of Business. He holds the status of a minister of state without salary or official benefits.
Role to Guide National Blockchain Strategy
Saqib will advise the government on formulating and implementing policies related to blockchain and cryptocurrency, aiming to foster innovation, regulatory clarity, and economic growth in Pakistan’s digital finance sector.
Part of Broader Digital Push
His appointment is part of a larger government initiative to integrate advanced technologies like crypto, AI, and blockchain into the national economy. This initiative includes plans for asset tokenisation and Bitcoin mining to utilise surplus electricity.
In a significant move towards embracing digital innovation, the Pakistani government has appointed Bilal Bin Saqib as the Chief Adviser to the Finance Minister of the newly established Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC).
Overview
Saqib, a British-Pakistani entrepreneur recognised for his contributions to blockchain technology and social entrepreneurship, is tasked with steering Pakistan’s cryptocurrency and blockchain integration into its financial ecosystem. As reported by the Pakistan Observer on May 26 2025, he will hold the rank of minister of state but will not receive a salary or official perks.
Saqib’s appointment underscores Pakistan’s commitment to technological advancement and economic modernisation. His extensive experience in the Web3 sector and recognition, including being listed in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and receiving an MBE for services to the UK’s National Health Service, position him as a pivotal figure in shaping the country’s digital finance landscape.
Formation of the Pakistan Crypto Council
Establishing the Pakistan Crypto Council marks a strategic effort by the government to regulate and promote blockchain technology and digital assets. Chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the council includes key figures from the State Bank of Pakistan, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Ministry of IT.
The PCC aims to develop clear regulatory guidelines, foster international collaborations, and create a conducive environment for innovation in the crypto space. By engaging with global crypto and blockchain organisations, the council seeks to adopt best practices and ensure that Pakistan becomes a competitive player in the global digital economy.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Outlook
In a landmark development, Changpeng Zhao, founder of Binance, has been appointed a strategic adviser to the Pakistan Crypto Council. Zhao’s role involves guiding regulation, infrastructure, education, and adoption of blockchain technologies in Pakistan. The government’s proactive stance is evident in its plans to utilise surplus electricity for Bitcoin (BTC) mining and AI data centres.
This initiative aims to capitalise on the country’s excess power capacity and position Pakistan as a regional digital finance and technology hub. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also held high-level discussions on asset tokenisation, signalling the government’s intent to modernise financial infrastructure and attract foreign investment through blockchain technology.
With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing interest in digital assets, Pakistan’s strategic moves in the blockchain and crypto sectors reflect a commitment to innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
