Pakistan reverses crypto ban as global exchanges seek licences

Part of a bigger story

Other coverage from the same ongoing situation. “% related” compares whole stories; the “% identical” above compares single filings — how both are scored.

1. 23 Sep 2026 77% related

   4 outlets · 2 developments

   Pakistan moves toward regulated virtual assets framework, says Finance Minister

   Most outlets led with the announcement by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb that Pakistan is moving toward a regulated virtual assets framework. They also highlighted the government's exploration of blockchain and tokenisation, particularly for cheaper remittances and SME support. The framing was largely consistent, with variations in the level of detail provided on the scope of the digital economy initiatives.

2. 2 Sep 2026 78% related

   7 outlets · 2 developments

   PVARA Chairman Reports 40 Million Crypto Accounts in Pakistan

   Most outlets highlighted the figure of 40 million crypto account holders in Pakistan and noted that the country has become the world’s third-largest crypto market, as stated by PVARA Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib. Some also mentioned the estimated $250 billion value of the virtual asset market. While several emphasized the regulatory challenge posed by the unregulated accounts, others focused on the demographic trend, noting that most users are under 40. The framing varied slightly, with some outlets leading with the regulatory implications and others with the market size or user base.

3. 31 Aug 2026 71% related

   3 outlets · 2 developments

   Pakistan official says country preparing for digital economy

   Most outlets highlighted the statement by Bilal Bin Saqib, Minister of State and Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, that Pakistan is preparing for future technology and the digital economy. One outlet noted the location (Hong Kong) and event (Bitcoin Asia Conference) where the remarks were made, while another omitted these details but included the term "next generation of technology." Both excerpts presented the statement in a neutral, forward-looking tone without additional context or framing.

4. 30 Aug 2026 76% related

   4 outlets · 2 developments

   Pakistan Establishes Virtual Assets Regulatory Framework in Six Months

   Most outlets led with the speed and low cost of Pakistan's new virtual assets regulatory framework, highlighting that it was established in under six months and used just 8% of the approved budget. The Nation added that the development has drawn international attention, while Daily Pakistan (English) and ProPakistani included the specific budget amount of $200,000. All excerpts attributed the announcement to the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) chief or the Minister of State.

5. 23 Aug 2026 75% related

   5 outlets · 2 developments

   Pakistan launches licensing regime for virtual asset service providers

   Most outlets reported that Pakistan has introduced a licensing regime for virtual asset service providers under the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). The Nation described the move as the completion of the regulatory framework, while Dunya News emphasized that the regulations have been notified and legalised. Both outlets used similar terminology from their excerpts to frame the development.