In a clear sign of Pakistan’s commitment to a regulated digital economy, the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, made his first official visit to the Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) on Thursday. During the visit, he received a detailed briefing on the country’s first regulatory framework for virtual assets.
PVARA’s chairman, Bilal Bin Saqib, outlined the Authority’s mandate and ongoing projects, presenting a phased approach to regulation. The framework aims to protect consumers, maintain financial stability, and align with national priorities. Officials highlighted progress in consultations with local and international stakeholders, drafting of regulatory guidelines, and measures to create a transparent and legally robust virtual asset ecosystem in Pakistan.
The Finance Minister praised the Authority’s work, noting its speed and rigor since its inception. He emphasized the need for timely implementation and underlined how clear regulations can safeguard Pakistan’s financial system while attracting investment in emerging digital sectors.
Reaffirming full government support, the minister directed his office to remove administrative barriers that could slow PVARA’s progress. Strengthening regulatory institutions, he said, is essential to restore trust, boost investor confidence, and keep Pakistan competitive in the global digital economy.
“This is an important national mandate, and we are building it from the ground up with a Pakistan-first approach,” PVARA Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib said. “The Authority is fully committed to responsible innovation, strong safeguards, and regulatory clarity. The Minister’s guidance and support will accelerate our work and help position Pakistan responsibly in the evolving digital economy.”
In a notable international recognition, the PVARA chairman has joined the World Economic Forum’s Steering Committee on Digital Asset Regulations. This role places Pakistan at the forefront of global policy discussions on digital asset governance.
The visit concluded with a joint reaffirmation of the government’s dedication to responsible innovation, strong institutions, and a transparent virtual asset framework aligned with national law and international best practices.