Pakistan Taps Surplus Power to Fuel Bitcoin and AI Expansion

The idea of using surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining was first discussed at a council meeting held on March 21. That session included lawmakers, the head of the State Bank of Pakistan, the chairman of the country’s Securities and Exchange Commission, and the federal IT secretary.

According to 24 News HD's report on May 25, the plan, which consists of two phases, is led by the Pakistan Crypto Council and supported by the Ministry of Finance.

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The first step will direct the unused power to build infrastructure for crypto mining and AI development. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said this approach is expected to bring in foreign investment and create high-skilled job opportunities.

Later, the government plans to introduce renewable energy to support these operations. This is aimed at helping the industry expand while keeping environmental concerns in check.

Several international companies involved in Bitcoin mining and AI have visited Pakistan recently to explore the possibilities. To make the country more appealing to these investors, the Ministry of Finance has introduced tax relief for AI centers and removed import duties on Bitcoin mining equipment.

Bilal Bin Saqib, who leads the Pakistan Crypto Council, called this a "turning point" for the country to build a digital economy. He believes Pakistan can become an active part of the global crypto and AI industries—if clear rules and systems are put in place.

Bhutan's Department of Tourism recently introduced a new crypto payment option for tourists, in partnership with Binance $8.63B Pay and DK Bank. How does it work? Read the full story.