Saqib will serve three-year term on honorary basis, resigning as SAPM to comply with bureaucratic rules
Minister of State for Crypto, Blockchain and CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council Bilal Bin Saqib. Photo: X
Bilal bin Saqib, Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, has been appointed Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) for a three-year term on an honorary basis, following a decision of the federal cabinet that takes effect immediately.
Following the appointment, he has resigned from his post as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Blockchain and Crypto to comply with bureaucratic regulations, The Express Tribune has learnt.
Under the terms of the appointment, Saqib will carry out the responsibilities of PVARA chairman without receiving a salary. The position also carries the status equivalent to a Minister of State. As per the Rules of Business 1973, a Special Assistant to the Prime Minister cannot simultaneously serve as chairman of a statutory regulatory authority.
Saqib was originally appointed as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Blockchain and Crypto with the status of Minister of State in May 2025. During his tenure, he has been leading Pakistan’s national blockchain strategy and oversaw the establishment of PVARA, of which he is now the chairman.
Responding to rumours circulating on WhatsApp about the potential closure of the crypto ministry, a staffer confirmed that “crypto developments for Pakistan are still ongoing” and that Saqib is scheduled to speak at Binance Blockchain Week on Wednesday, December 3, in Dubai.
A formal notification of Saqib’s appointment as PVARA chairman has been issued, and the resignation from his previous role as SAPM has been officially acquired by The Express Tribune.
The Pakistan Crypto Council, formally established earlier this year, continues to operate as a national force for crypto policy, innovation, youth empowerment, and international engagement in crypto and blockchain.
Pakistan is home to over 50 million crypto users, with an annual trading volume exceeding $300 billion. The country consistently ranks in the top 5 globally for crypto adoption, reflecting its strong grassroots engagement with digital assets. Out of a population of 240 million, 70% of Pakistanis are under the age of 30.
Pakistan boasts a highly favorable demographic for widespread crypto adoption, making it one of the most promising emerging markets for blockchain and digital finance innovation. Pakistan is also the third-largest freelancer market in the world, showcasing its dynamic and entrepreneurial digital workforce.
Who is Bilal bin Saqib?
A London-based entrepreneur, Bilal bin Saqib has been at the forefront of digital innovation and social impact. Recognized by King Charles III, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and the Mayor of London, Saqib’s work spans across blockchain technology, crypto investments, and social entrepreneurship.
In 2023, he was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) for his humanitarian efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he led the One Million Meals initiative, delivering over 100,000 meals to NHS staff and vulnerable populations across the UK.
His academic credentials include a Master’s in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship from the London School of Economics (LSE). He also received the 1632nd Points of Light Award, a recognition granted by the British Prime Minister to individuals making outstanding contributions to their communities.
Beyond his work in fintech, Saqib co-founded Tayaba, a social enterprise focused on Pakistan’s water crisis, introducing the H2O Wheel, an innovative water transportation device designed to ease the burden on rural communities.
