In a landmark move signaling a significant shift in its economic strategy, Pakistan has announced the establishment of its first government-backed Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. This initiative is complemented by the allocation of 2,000 megawatts (MW) of surplus electricity to power Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, marking the country’s ambitious entry into the global digital economy.

The announcement was made by Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, during the Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas. Saqib emphasized that the Bitcoin reserve, held in a national digital wallet, is intended as a sovereign asset for long-term economic stability rather than for speculation or sale. He stated, “This national Bitcoin wallet is designed as a sovereign asset—not for trading or short-term gains. We are committed to holding these reserves indefinitely, with no intention of selling.”

The 2,000 MW of electricity allocated for this initiative will primarily come from underutilized coal-based power plants such as those in Sahiwal and Port Qasim. This strategy aims to repurpose idle energy into high-value digital assets, attract foreign investment, create high-tech jobs, and generate substantial international revenue.

Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, bridging Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, further enhances its appeal as a data and crypto infrastructure hub. The establishment of AI data centers will also address critical concerns around data sovereignty and cybersecurity while supporting the country’s broader digital transformation goals.

Bilal Bin Saqib described this as a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s economic evolution, stating, “Pakistan is shedding the weight of its past and emerging as a bold, innovation-driven nation. Fueled by a digitally native youth, forged through economic necessity, and steered by a new era of tech leadership, we are building a forward-facing future.”