TL;DR
- Pakistan has created a dedicated crypto investigation unit within the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to address illicit activities involving digital assets.
- The initiative comes as the country develops a regulatory framework through PVARA, while also seeking to attract blockchain investment and promote compliant financial innovation.
- The move combines stronger enforcement measures with Pakistan’s growing crypto adoption strategy.
Pakistan has launched a specialized cryptocurrency investigation unit as part of its broader effort to regulate digital assets while combating financial crimes linked to virtual currencies.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) established the new crypto investigation unit inside its National Command and Control Centre (NC3), where authorities will examine cases involving money laundering, terrorism financing and other illegal uses of crypto assets. The initiative strengthens Pakistan’s enforcement capabilities as the country continues building a formal structure for the digital asset industry.
FIA Counter-Terrorism Wing Director Dr. Muhammad Athar Waheed confirmed that the unit will focus on criminal activities involving cryptocurrencies, while the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) remains responsible for licensing and supervising digital asset companies. The agency is also encouraging other institutions, including cybercrime and anti-narcotics departments, to create specialized teams focused on crypto-related investigations.
Pakistan Crypto Investigation Unit Expands Digital Asset Oversight
Pakistan’s crypto strategy has accelerated in recent months as Islamabad moves from restrictions toward regulation. The country removed its previous banking limitations on crypto transactions, created PVARA as the main regulatory authority and started developing a licensing system for exchanges operating within the legal framework.
According to Chainalysis’ 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index, Pakistan ranked third worldwide in cryptocurrency adoption, showing strong demand for digital assets among users. The government has increasingly focused on transforming this activity into a regulated market that can support innovation, investment and broader access to financial services.
Pakistan has also explored blockchain applications beyond trading, including the potential tokenization of state assets and the use of stablecoins for international payments. Discussions with global crypto companies have positioned the country as a potential hub for digital finance in South Asia.
Regulatory Framework Faces Financial And Religious Questions
Despite the expansion of crypto initiatives, Pakistan continues to face internal discussions over digital assets. Some religious institutions have questioned whether cryptocurrencies align with Islamic financial principles, creating additional debates around solutions such as asset-backed stablecoins and blockchain-based financial instruments.
PVARA officials have argued that regulated digital assets could support Shariah-compliant finance if they include transparency, proper backing and appropriate safeguards. The government continues balancing regulatory oversight, technological innovation and concerns from traditional institutions.
