- CZ joins the Pakistan Crypto Council to guide Web3 regulation and adoption.
- Pakistan eyes global crypto investment as KSE-100 falls 3,882 points.
- Crypto is seen as a hedge as 33% of users protect against rupee devaluation.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as a strategic adviser to advise on blockchain regulation and adoption. He was recruited during a devastating stock market crash, focusing his interest in crypto as a financial alternative.
According to a post by RonyZ on X, Zhao’s appointment was confirmed by Pakistan’s Ministry of Finance following the council’s formation in March. Bloomberg reported that Zhao will provide strategic direction on digital asset policy, infrastructure development, and regulatory clarity.
Regulatory Alignment and Blockchain Innovation in Focus
Besides Zhao’s involvement, council CEO Bilal bin Saqib emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to support Web3 growth through a government-backed regulatory body. He described the country as investor-ready, highlighting its youthful population and low-cost, high-growth potential. The council aims to attract global crypto capital through structured regulations and innovation-driven policies.
While crypto initiatives gain traction, Pakistan’s traditional markets suffered a steep decline on April 7. The KSE-100 Index dropped 3,882 points amid global tariff tensions, activating circuit breakers and halting trading. Key energy and industrial firms such as OGDC, Hubco, and PPL led the losses, intensifying the economic urgency.
Web3 Push Strengthens as Crypto Gains Traction in Pakistan
The Crypto Council views blockchain as a stabilizing force, especially as 33% of Pakistani users already use crypto to hedge against rupee depreciation, according to KuCoin. A Bitget survey found that 46% of South Asian respondents prefer crypto for its speed and accessibility, showing growing regional demand.
Zhao will also assist the council in developing crypto education programs and integrating blockchain in sectors like fintech, governance, and commerce. All upcoming regulations will follow FATF-compliant standards for AML and CTF to ensure global alignment.
Zhao’s advisory role follows similar crypto-focused appointments in countries like Kyrgyzstan. His involvement underscores Pakistan’s ambition to lead Web3 development in South Asia. The council aims to drive financial innovation through blockchain integration across key sectors.