The Pakistani government has allocated 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity exclusively for Pakistani Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. The announcement, made on May 25 by the finance ministry, marks the country’s first major step toward embracing cryptocurrency and high-tech industries.
With chronic energy surpluses and an underutilized power grid, some see this Pakistani Bitcoin mining step as a golden opportunity to monetize excess electricity while creating jobs and luring global investors.
Pakistan’s energy sector has long struggled with inefficiency: high tariffs, unpaid bills, and a growing shift toward solar power have left the national grid with unused capacity. The dedication of 2,000 MW to Pakistani Bitcoin mining embodies the hope to convert its surplus resources into a revenue stream.
“Instead of letting excess power go to waste, we can now channel it into high-value industries like cryptocurrency and AI,” said Abdullah Khan, an energy analyst based in Islamabad. “This is a smart way to monetize our infrastructure.”
The move aligns with global trends where countries with cheap, underutilized electricity, such as Kazakhstan and Iran, have become hotspots for Bitcoin miners. Pakistan, with some of the lowest industrial power tariffs in South Asia, could soon join their ranks.
The government’s decision has already sparked interest from international Bitcoin mining firms. Chinese and Middle Eastern companies, in particular, are reportedly in talks to set up large-scale mining operations.
“We’ve been monitoring Pakistan’s energy market for months,” said Zhang Wei, CEO of a Hong Kong-based mining firm. “With this new policy, the country could become one of the most cost-efficient places to mine Bitcoin.”
Industry experts estimate that Pakistani Bitcoin mining could attract over $500 million in foreign direct investment within the first year if regulations remain favorable.
Despite the optimism, hurdles remain. Pakistan has yet to fully legalize cryptocurrency, and the State Bank has previously warned against its use. However, the new initiative suggests a shift in policy.
“The government must provide clear regulations to ensure stability,” said Mariam Khalid, a blockchain consultant in Karachi. “Without legal safeguards, foreign investors may hesitate.”
Additionally, Pakistan’s power infrastructure needs upgrades to support energy-intensive mining farms. Frequent outages and transmission losses could pose operational risks.
Beyond attracting investment, Pakistani Bitcoin mining could create thousands of tech jobs. From data center technicians to blockchain developers, the sector may offer new opportunities for Pakistan’s young, tech-savvy workforce.
“This isn’t just about mining Bitcoin—it’s about building a digital economy,” said Faisal Ahmed, a Lahore-based entrepreneur. “If executed well, Pakistan could become a regional hub for blockchain innovation.”
The move has drawn mixed reactions from international analysts. While some praise Pakistan’s forward-thinking approach, others caution about volatility in the crypto market.
“Bitcoin mining can be lucrative, but it’s highly dependent on Bitcoin’s price,” said Michael Carter, a crypto economist. “Pakistan must diversify its digital strategy to mitigate risks.”
Still, with global figures like Robert Kiyosaki predicting Bitcoin could hit $1 million, the timing might be perfect for Pakistani Bitcoin mining to take off.
The 2,000 MW allocation is just the beginning. Officials hint at further expansions if the pilot succeeds, potentially positioning Pakistan as a major player in the global crypto-mining industry.
For now, all eyes are on how quickly the government can implement policies to support Pakistani Bitcoin mining—and whether the world’s miners will take the bait.
Sunderland-born crypto enthusiast, cycling fanatic, and wordsmith. As co-founder and lead editor of The Bit Gazette, Mark combines his passion for blockchain with a knack for breaking down complex stories into engaging content. When he's not tracking the latest crypto trends, you'll find him on two wheels—exploring backroads or clocking miles on his favorite cycling routes. Dedicated to delivering sharp, insightful journalism in the fast-moving world of digital assets. New