Advisor to the Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad said that “Digital Nation Pakistan 2025” is not just a project but a long-term national vision to transform Pakistan into a digitally empowered economy.
He made the remarks while speaking at the FinTech Forward Forum during the 27th ITCN Asia exhibition at the Expo Center.
Crypto Regulation and Tax Incentives Under Consideration
Schehzad said that through the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), cryptocurrency holders will be able to participate in the formal digital economy.
He added that tax incentives for digital assets and fintech investors are under discussion, with several policy options currently being evaluated.
Pakistan is still in the early stages of regulating virtual assets, he noted, but the government is moving cautiously while learning from global best practices, particularly referencing the UAE’s regulatory framework.
99% of Government Files Now Processed Digitally
Highlighting progress in e-governance, Schehzad said that 99 percent of government files are now transferred digitally through the E-Office platform across ministries.
He said the system has:
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Reduced data loss
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Improved decision-making speed
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Enabled performance monitoring
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Increased transparency and accountability
Goal: 120 Million Bank Accounts and Fully Digital G2G Transactions
The advisor announced that the government aims to:
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Establish 120 million bank accounts
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Make all government-to-government (G2G) transactions fully digital
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Shift the entire government system to a digital foundation within this year
These measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen financial inclusion and digital governance.
Incentives for Investors, SMEs, Agriculture, and Youth
Responding to questions from the audience, Schehzad said the government is planning special incentives under the new industrial policy to attract local and foreign investment.
He also announced support programs, including
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Small loans for SMEs and agriculture sector
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Youth financing schemes to promote entrepreneurship
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Skill bonds to incentivize skilled professionals
These initiatives aim to support self-sufficiency and job creation in the digital economy.
Government’s Role: Enable Innovation, Not Control It
Schehzad stressed that the government’s primary role in the digital economy is to:
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Provide a conducive business environment
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Develop innovation-friendly policies
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Support emerging technologies and fintech ecosystems
He said new policies are being drafted to empower youth in financial and digital sectors, ensuring that Pakistan’s workforce is ready for future economic demands.
Focus on Balanced Regulation and Global Standards
The session concluded with an emphasis on:
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Balanced policymaking
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Investor confidence
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Compliance with international regulatory standards
Officials reiterated that Pakistan’s digital transition would be guided by innovation-friendly regulations aligned with global best practices.
