The Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) has announced the appointment of Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, co-founder and former CEO of Binance, as its strategic adviser. This move signals Pakistan's commitment to fostering a regulated cryptocurrency ecosystem and attracting global blockchain innovation.
Key Developments
- Strategic Leadership: CZ will advise the PCC on regulatory frameworks, digital infrastructure, and crypto adoption strategies.
- Government Collaboration: The council works closely with Pakistan's finance ministry and private sector to develop a compliant crypto market.
- Demographic Potential: With 60% of Pakistan's 240 million population under 30, the country presents significant growth opportunities for Web3 technologies.
Pakistan's Crypto Landscape
The PCC, established in March 2025, aims to:
- Create legal frameworks for cryptocurrency trading
- Develop blockchain infrastructure
- Position Pakistan as a regional hub for digital finance
- Foster international crypto investments
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated: "Pakistan is open for innovation. With CZ's expertise, we're accelerating our vision to become a Web3 powerhouse."
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Regulatory Context
| Aspect | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Crypto Regulation | Not officially regulated but not banned |
| Central Bank Stance | No authorized entities for virtual currency transactions (as of 2021) |
| Recent Progress | PCC established to develop legal frameworks |
CZ emphasized Pakistan's potential during his meetings with:
- Prime Minister of Pakistan
- Deputy Prime Minister
- PCC leadership including CEO Bilal Bin Saqib
Zhao's Professional Background
- Former Binance CEO (stepped down in 2023)
- Blockchain.info development team member (2013)
- Former OKCoin CTO
- Key investor in Elon Musk's Twitter acquisition
- Ranked #24 on Forbes' Billionaires List (2025)
FAQ Section
Q: What does CZ's appointment mean for Pakistan's crypto market?
A: This signals serious government commitment to developing regulated blockchain infrastructure and attracting international investment.
Q: Is cryptocurrency legal in Pakistan?
A: While not officially regulated, cryptocurrencies aren't banned. The PCC is working to establish clear legal frameworks.
Q: What challenges does Pakistan face in crypto adoption?
A: Key challenges include creating regulatory clarity, building technical infrastructure, and improving financial literacy around digital assets.
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Q: How might this affect regional crypto markets?
A: Pakistan's moves could influence neighboring countries to accelerate their own blockchain adoption strategies.
Q: What's Zhao's role in Binance currently?
A: After stepping down as CEO in 2023, Zhao remains influential in the crypto industry through advisory roles and investments.
Q: What makes Pakistan attractive for crypto development?
A: Its young population, growing tech sector, and strategic location create ideal conditions for blockchain innovation.
Looking Ahead
The PCC's initiatives under Zhao's guidance could transform Pakistan into:
- A regional leader in Web3 technologies
- An attractive destination for crypto startups
- A model for emerging market blockchain adoption
This partnership represents a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized technologies in South Asia.