Judiciary Issues National AI Usage Guidelines
May 2, 2026
PM directs fast-tracking of virtual assets regulation to boost digital economy, investor confidence, and align with global standards.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to expedite the operationalisation of Pakistan’s virtual assets regulatory framework to support the country’s digital economy and strengthen investor confidence.
The directive came during a meeting with Bilal Bin Saqib, Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), in Lahore. The prime minister emphasised aligning the framework with international standards to facilitate growth in the emerging digital finance sector.
Officials briefed the prime minister on progress in transitioning PVARA into a fully functional regulator, along with the launch of a regulatory sandbox to support innovation in areas such as AI-powered payments and virtual asset services.
The prime minister also called for targeted initiatives to train youth in modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital finance, to prepare the workforce for evolving economic demands.
The development follows recent measures by the State Bank of Pakistan allowing financial institutions to open accounts for licensed virtual asset service providers.
The Virtual Assets Act, 2026, has established PVARA as the statutory authority responsible for licensing, regulation, and oversight of virtual asset activities in Pakistan.
