The federal government has decided to extend the Virtual Assets Ordinance 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to establish a strong legal framework for cryptocurrency and digital asset regulation in Pakistan. The ordinance, which was introduced in July 2025, is set to expire in the first week of November. To avoid any legal vacuum, a summary will soon be presented in the National Assembly to extend it for another 120 days.
Officials confirmed that the government aims to use this extension period to finalize the process of turning the ordinance into a full Act of Parliament. This move is seen as a major step toward providing legal certainty to investors, traders, and fintech firms operating in the fast-growing digital finance sector. Moreover, the draft bill has already been tabled in both the National Assembly and the Senate, where it is currently under review by the Standing Committee on Finance.
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The Virtual Assets Ordinance 2025 was introduced to regulate the use, exchange, and trading of digital assets — including cryptocurrencies, tokens, and blockchain-based instruments — in Pakistan. It establishes a legal foundation for registering virtual asset service providers (VASPs) and sets standards for compliance, taxation, and anti-money laundering (AML) measures. These steps are designed to ensure transparency and investor protection in a sector that has long operated without clear rules.
Furthermore, the ordinance is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global digital economy by promoting innovation and ensuring responsible use of emerging financial technologies. The government also hopes to attract foreign investment and encourage local startups in blockchain and fintech development, creating more opportunities in the technology-driven market.
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As the extension process moves forward, policymakers remain focused on striking a balance between innovation and regulation. They believe a structured framework for digital assets will not only build investor confidence but also safeguard the country’s financial system from potential misuse or illegal activities. The conversion of the ordinance into an act will mark a key milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward embracing the digital financial future.