Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that the government was working towards regulating digital currencies, acknowledging their growing importance in the global financial system.
Chairing a meeting of the Economic Advisory Council (EAC), the prime minister stated that consultations were underway to assess the benefits and risks associated with digital currencies.
A source in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) told that Mr Shehbaz believed the world was increasingly moving towards digital financial transactions. “Therefore, we are carefully reviewing the pros and cons before taking any regulatory steps,” the source said.
According to an official statement, EAC members expressed confidence in the government's economic policies and presented recommendations aimed at strengthening economic growth. The prime minister welcomed these suggestions and directed the relevant authorities to collaborate with council members to formulate a comprehensive action plan.
“Economic stability is not the result of an individual effort but a collective achievement,” Mr Shehbaz remarked, reiterating his government’s commitment to sustainable economic development. He added that Pakistan would fully utilise its regional trade potential to drive growth.
The premier also stressed the need to enhance the competitiveness of local industries in international markets, particularly through exports. He identified industry, agriculture, IT development, job creation, and export growth as key priorities for his administration.
Mr Shehbaz underscored the importance of setting up green data centres and improving telecommunication services to expand internet access in remote areas. “This will not only enhance connectivity but also support freelancers and IT exports,” he said.
He urged that the meeting’s discussions be translated into concrete policy measures. Participants acknowledged that Pakistan’s economy was on a stabilising trajectory, with improved price stability contributing to increased production.
They further noted that the government’s economic team had defied negative projections, earning recognition from international financial institutions, investors, and the business community.
Additionally, the prime minister was lauded for initiating institutional reforms, with participants stating that improvements in the tax system, regulatory ease, and a business-friendly environment had facilitated growth across key sectors.