Pakistan is reportedly contemplating the allocation of its surplus electricity towards Bitcoin mining operations and the development of AI infrastructure, according to statements made by the CEO of Crypto Council to Reuters. This strategic shift follows the recent appointment of Binance founder Changpeng Zhao as a strategic cryptocurrency advisor to the nation.
Bilal Bin Saqib, the head of the Crypto Council and advisor to the finance minister, mentioned that discussions are ongoing with various Bitcoin mining companies interested in establishing operations in the country.
The effectiveness of the Bitcoin mining center’s location will be influenced by the regions with available excess power, he clarified.
“Pakistan ranks among the top 10 global adopters of cryptocurrencies, even in the absence of formal regulation,” Saqib told Reuters, estimating that there are between 15 and 20 million cryptocurrency users within the country.
He further emphasized that the government aims to promote fintech innovation and growth through the implementation of regulatory sandboxes and the creation of safe environments for experimentation.
Saqib argued that enhancing skills in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and artificial intelligence among the youth would not only spur job creation but also stimulate the economy. This initiative seeks to increase exports through digital services, thereby establishing Pakistan as a global hub for emerging technology talent.
Pakistan is engaging with international regulators to develop a “Pakistan-first” framework for cryptocurrency, Crypto Council CEO @Bilalbinsaqib revealed to Cryptonews. #Pakistan #CryptoCouncil https://t.co/GZ9vkwUTo5
— Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) April 1, 2025
Challenges in Pakistan’s Energy Landscape
The South Asian nation has encountered significant structural challenges within its energy sector over recent years, characterized by high electricity tariffs and persistent overcapacity issues.
A 2021 report highlighted that Pakistan was generating more electrical capacity than it required. “We are producing much more than we need,” Tabish Gauhar, a special assistant to the prime minister on power, told Reuters at that time.
This surplus energy situation arose following the development of new power plants, primarily coal-fired facilities financed by Chinese investments.
According to Ember Energy, approximately 59% of Pakistan’s electricity is generated from fossil fuels, while 41% is sourced from clean energy, surpassing the global average of 39%. Additionally, the nation produces just 3% of its electricity through solar and wind energy sources.
Attracting Global Bitcoin Mining Entities
In a March 25 interview with Bloomberg, Saqib discussed Pakistan’s intentions to attract global Bitcoin mining companies to leverage its electricity potential.
“We welcome companies to visit Pakistan to explore opportunities for Bitcoin mining,” he affirmed, stating that this is an opportune moment for investigating mining possibilities.
He also expressed admiration for former U.S. President Trump, labeling him the “biggest, bullish catalyst for crypto in history.”
“I believe the U.S. sets the trend globally. Trump is prioritizing cryptocurrency at a national level, and nations, including Pakistan, will need to follow suit or risk falling behind,” he added.
The post Pakistan Plans to Utilize Part of Surplus Electricity for Bitcoin Mining: Report appeared first on Cryptonews.
