The Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has officially invited leading international crypto exchanges and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) to apply for licensing under the country’s newly introduced Virtual Assets Ordinance 2025. This landmark step positions Pakistan as a potential hub for secure and transparent digital finance.
According to PVARA, the initiative is designed to establish a trusted ecosystem for digital assets that meets international compliance standards set by organizations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank.
By aligning with these global benchmarks, Pakistan seeks to strengthen investor confidence and attract foreign players into its rapidly expanding crypto market.
Pakistan’s digital asset industry is already booming, with over 40 million active users and an estimated annual trade volume surpassing $300 billion, as revealed by the authority. This rapid growth signals strong domestic demand and highlights the importance of bringing regulated international platforms to the country.
The licensing framework is open to exchanges that are already registered under reputable international regulators, including the US SEC, UK FCA, EU VASP, UAE VARA, and Singapore MAS. Applicants must also show strict adherence to anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CTF), and cybersecurity measures before being granted approval.
Bilal bin Saqib, Chairman of PVARA and Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, emphasized that the decision is aimed at encouraging global leaders in digital finance to collaborate with Pakistan. He stated that the initiative will play a vital role in shaping an inclusive and future-ready digital financial system.
Interested firms can submit their applications directly to PVARA’s Islamabad headquarters via email. The process will remain open on a rolling basis, allowing more participants to join Pakistan’s evolving crypto economy.
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With this regulatory leap, the Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has not only opened doors for global investment but also taken a decisive step toward positioning the country as a regional leader in digital finance.
