Pakistan: Pakistan has introduced a transparent regulatory system to promote the digital economy and protect virtual assets by issuing licensing regulations and activating the licensing portal. Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority has completed its virtual assets licensing system in less than 6 months.

According to Radio Pakistan, current virtual asset operators in Pakistan can apply for licenses by September 5. The regulations, issued under the Virtual Assets Act 2026, have introduced 10 different categories of licenses. These categories include exchange, broker-dealer, advisory, lending and borrowing services, mining, and other services.

Minister of State and Chairman of Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, Bilal Bin Saqib, stated that a platform has been created to safeguard the assets of millions of Pakistanis, which will also impose legal responsibilities. He emphasized that service providers are encouraged to obtain licenses and connect to the banking system.

Bilal Bin Saqib also highlighted that the legal framework has opened the door to significant opportunities for foreign companies. He noted that a comprehensive regulatory and licensing framework has been provided within a short period of 6 months following the approval of the Act.