- Pakistan allocates electricity for Bitcoin mining; IMF questions legality.
- PDAA to regulate digital assets in Pakistan.
- IMF seeks policy consultation with Pakistan.
Pakistan’s government plans to allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining, prompting scrutiny from the IMF. The announcement was made during the Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas.
Pakistan’s Energy Allocation to Bitcoin Mining
Pakistan’s allocation of significant power resources to Bitcoin mining is part of its digital strategy. The IMF’s scrutiny hints at previous concerns with El Salvador’s Bitcoin policy.
The Pakistan Digital Asset Authority (PDAA) and National Crypto Council spearhead the regulatory framework. Ex-Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao is an advisory figure, although no statements are found from him.
Financial and Sustainability Concerns
The energy allocation raises sustainability and financial efficiency questions. This initiative requires consultation with the IMF due to potential resource strains.
This policy mirrors El Salvador’s IMF challenges, focusing on fiscal risk and resource management amid a challenging economic climate. A government official from the Government of Pakistan has noted, “There is a fear of further tough talks from the IMF on this initiative.”
Regulatory and Technical Challenges
The Pakistani government’s bet on Bitcoin aims to create a national reserve; however, no observed changes in on-chain dynamics or DeFi activity have been noted.
Pakistan’s initiative may encounter regulatory and technical challenges. Historical trends suggest the IMF will push for clarity and sustainability before adoption. Scenario-based analyses could guide future policy decisions.
