Islamabad, Feb 24: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has urged the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and regulators to approach cryptocurrency with an open mind. Speaking at the Pakistan Banking Summit 2025 in Karachi, he emphasized the need for proactive policymaking as digital assets gain traction in informal markets.
He noted that emerging economies are leveraging AI and digital assets to enhance financial inclusion. While acknowledging that cryptocurrency regulation falls under SBP’s jurisdiction, he stressed the importance of staying ahead of regulatory challenges.
Aurangzeb also highlighted Pakistan’s progress in digital banking, emphasizing efforts to reduce cash dependency through POS machines and QR codes. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deregulation and privatization to attract foreign direct investment (FDI).
The minister reiterated Pakistan’s focus on structural economic reforms in taxation, energy, and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to break the boom-and-bust cycle and ensure sustainable growth.
