Pakistan Aims to Become Crypto Leader by 2030, Says Zhao

Pakistan is taking significant steps to establish itself as a major player in the cryptocurrency market by 2030, according to former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao. In a recent interview with Bilal bin Saqib, Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Crypto Council, Zhao highlighted the country’s rapid regulatory advancements and its potential to attract global investment in digital assets.

The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has been instrumental in formalizing the country’s digital asset ecosystem. This includes licensing major exchanges such as Binance and HTX to operate within Pakistan’s borders. Zhao commended the leadership for its proactive approach, stating, “I think it’s fantastic to see a country of this size able to have such a clear vision from the leadership and move at this speed.”

Zhao emphasized that if Pakistan continues on its current trajectory, it could emerge as one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency markets within five years. The growing demand for digital assets, particularly among the nation’s youthful and tech-savvy population, is driving this momentum.

Tokenization as a Key Strategy

One of the innovative strategies being explored by the Pakistani government is the tokenization of real-world assets. Zhao suggested that this initiative could significantly enhance liquidity and attract foreign investment. He pointed out that tokenizing equities could provide international investors with direct access to Pakistani businesses, thereby fostering a more dynamic market environment.

Zhao remarked, “None of the countries would not prefer the global population to purchase their stocks,” indicating the clear advantages of adopting tokenization. He urged policymakers to act swiftly, asserting that countries embracing these structures early will gain a sustained competitive edge in the global economy.

Beyond national policy, Zhao underscored the transformative potential of blockchain technology for individuals and small businesses in Pakistan. He noted that entering the blockchain space requires less capital and infrastructure compared to traditional banking or artificial intelligence ventures. “The blockchain will never turn your back on you,” he said, highlighting its accessibility.

Regulatory Developments and Industry Impact

The regulatory developments in Pakistan are already yielding results. Earlier this month, Binance received registration as an anti-money laundering entity through PVARA, marking a significant step toward becoming a fully licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in Pakistan. This approval aligns with the Financial Action Task Force standards, indicating a commitment to robust regulatory compliance.

Zhao cautioned that while the blockchain offers numerous opportunities, these advantages must be supported by a strong educational framework. He advocated for increased university programs, incubators, and training initiatives to harness local talent and transform regulatory momentum into long-term innovation.

The convergence of regulatory progress and a large digital-native population positions Pakistan to become a significant contributor to the global digital asset economy. As policymakers and industry leaders work collaboratively to formalize the crypto market, the country is poised to attract substantial investment and foster innovation in the coming years.

As the landscape evolves, investors should remain aware that crypto assets are highly volatile. Engaging in this market carries inherent risks, and individuals should be prepared for potential losses when investing.

The developments in Pakistan’s cryptocurrency market signal a promising future, with the potential to reshape the nation’s economic landscape and elevate its status on the global stage.