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Pakistan’s Strategic Move into the Digital Economy

Pakistan’s Strategic Move into the Digital Economy

Pakistan’s Strategic Move into the Digital Economy 4096 2344 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan has taken a groundbreaking step in the realm of financial technology with the incorporation of the Strategic Digital Wallet Company, a state-owned enterprise (SOE) designed to manage and safeguard government-owned virtual assets. Furthermore, this initiative comes in line with the newly introduced Virtual Asset Ordinance 2025, which provides a clear and structured framework for virtual assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs).

As a result, the move reflects Pakistan’s ambition to embrace blockchain-based financial technologies while ensuring compliance, transparency, and national security.

Backed by the Virtual Asset Ordinance 2025

The Virtual Asset Ordinance 2025 is a milestone for Pakistan’s financial sector. In fact, it provides the legal foundation for regulating digital assets, an area that has long remained under uncertainty. Therefore, Pakistan is now in a stronger position to build trust in blockchain-driven financial solutions.

Moreover, this ordinance offers a clear pathway for both public and private institutions to operate securely in the virtual asset economy.

A Government-Owned Non-Profit Entity

The Strategic Digital Wallet Company is being established as a non-profit organization under Section 42 of the Companies Act 2017, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). Consequently, this ensures the company functions transparently, solely for the purpose of protecting and managing digital assets on behalf of the government.

Additionally, the initiative is spearheaded by the Pakistan Crypto Council, which emphasized the need for a secure, government-operated digital wallet. In this way, the company aligns perfectly with the new regulatory regime.

Leadership and Governance

To meet SECP requirements, three senior officials have been appointed as the company’s founding directors:

  • Taimoor Hasan, Joint Secretary, Finance Division
  • Humera Azam Khan, Joint Secretary, Cabinet Division
  • Amir Muhammad Khan Niazi, Joint Secretary, Law and Justice Division

Furthermore, Ahmed Taimoor Hasan has been appointed as the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company until a regular CEO is appointed under the State-Owned Enterprises (Governance and Operations) Act 2023.

The Future of Digital Finance in Pakistan

The Strategic Digital Wallet is envisioned to become Pakistan’s foundational infrastructure for managing state-owned virtual assets. For example, some of the potential use cases include:

  • Tokenized Government Bonds
  • Sovereign Digital Currency
  • Cross-Border Blockchain Transactions

Therefore, by building this infrastructure, Pakistan is preparing itself for the next phase of the digital economy. In the long run, regulated and transparent use of blockchain technology could significantly strengthen its financial ecosystem.

A Progressive Step for Pakistan

This initiative is being widely hailed as a forward-looking step that places Pakistan alongside nations actively adopting digital finance frameworks. Moreover, by mitigating the risks of unregulated crypto activity, the government is signaling its commitment to innovation, regulation, and security in the blockchain space.

Ultimately, the establishment of the Strategic Digital Wallet Company not only highlights Pakistan’s adaptability to global financial trends but also sets the stage for integrating digital assets into mainstream governance and economic growth.

Pakistan’s Melting Glaciers Technology as a Lifeline Against Climate Change

Pakistan’s Melting Glaciers Technology as a Lifeline Against Climate Change

Pakistan’s Melting Glaciers Technology as a Lifeline Against Climate Change 2560 1434 D. I. Khan New City

The recent flooding in Gilgit-Baltistan highlights the devastating impact of climate change on Pakistan’s fragile mountain ecosystems. Glacial melt is accelerating, triggering flash floods, landslides, and widespread destruction. But this is not just a northern issue — from Karachi to Lahore, extreme weather events are disrupting lives, damaging infrastructure, and straining communities.

Pakistan is facing a climate emergency that extends far beyond the glaciers. Rising temperatures, unseasonal rains, and unpredictable weather patterns are reshaping the entire country’s environmental and social fabric.

The Growing Threat of Melting Glaciers

Unseasonal rains, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and cloudbursts are becoming increasingly frequent. In mountainous regions, melting glaciers destabilize slopes and trigger landslides. In cities, overwhelmed drainage systems lead to waterlogging, disease outbreaks, and power failures.

This crisis is not only environmental but also humanitarian. Preserving glaciers is crucial to prevent cascading disasters that affect agriculture, infrastructure, and human lives.

Technology: A Lifeline in Pakistan’s Climate Fight

Technology is emerging as a critical defense against climate disasters. Initiatives such as icepreservation.org demonstrate how science and community-driven solutions can stabilize glacial environments.

Some key innovations include:

  • Passive cooling systems to slow glacier melting.
  • Artificial ice structures to regulate water flow.
  • Community-based monitoring tools for early warnings.

How AI and Digital Tools Are Transforming Resilience

Modern technologies are enabling Pakistan to predict, prepare, and protect against climate risks:

  • Remote sensing & satellite imagery: Tracking glacier changes in real time.
  • AI-powered climate models: Predicting GLOFs and weather patterns.
  • Mobile apps & digital platforms: Providing communities with real-time alerts and disaster education.

Globally, countries are already using these innovations:

  • Greenland: AI and drones predict glacial outbursts.
  • India & Bangladesh: Flood forecasting protects millions.
  • California: AI detects wildfires instantly.
  • Japan & East Africa: AI enhances earthquake and weather forecasting.

Building a Resilient Future for Pakistan

Technology alone cannot solve Pakistan’s climate challenges. For real impact, it must be integrated with policy, investment, and local knowledge. Empowering vulnerable communities, funding research, and implementing sustainable infrastructure will be key.

Saving Pakistan’s glaciers is not just an environmental responsibility — it is a humanitarian necessity. Without urgent action, the melting ice will continue to unleash floods, disrupt agriculture, and endanger millions. With technology, collaboration, and resilience, Pakistan can fight back against this unfolding crisis.

A Green Energy Opportunity for Pakistani Startups

A Green Energy Opportunity for Pakistani Startups

A Green Energy Opportunity for Pakistani Startups 1000 500 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan’s startup ecosystem just received a major push towards sustainability. A leading commercial bank has partnered with the Prime Minister’s Youth Business and Agriculture Financing Scheme to offer low-cost solar loans — giving entrepreneurs the chance to cut electricity costs while embracing renewable energy.

With financing starting as low as 5% profit rates, this initiative opens the door for startups and SMEs to make the switch to solar energy, reducing reliance on expensive traditional electricity.

Loan Details at a Glance

Entrepreneurs can now access flexible loans tailored to their business needs:

  • Loan Amounts: From Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 75 Lac
  • Repayment Tenure: Up to 8 years
  • Grace Period: 1 year to ease financial burden
  • Profit Rates: Fixed between 5% to 7% depending on the tier

These terms make solar financing highly accessible, enabling small businesses to plan long-term growth while lowering energy expenses.

Who Can Apply?

This initiative is designed to empower a wide range of Pakistanis:

  • Open to all citizens with a valid CNIC
  • Entrepreneurs aged 21–45 can apply
  • IT and e-commerce business owners only need to be 18 years or older

The scheme ensures that both young entrepreneurs and established business owners can benefit equally from clean energy adoption.

Simple & Convenient Application

Applying for the loan is straightforward. Interested applicants can submit their requests through the Prime Minister’s Youth Program portal online. This makes it easy for entrepreneurs across Pakistan — from major cities to small towns — to apply without hassle.

Why This Matters for Businesses

Switching to solar energy under this scheme brings multiple advantages:

  • Reduced energy costs for startups and SMEs
  • Improved business sustainability with renewable energy
  • Contribution to Pakistan’s green economy goals
  • Energy independence for growing businesses

This program is more than just financing — it’s a step toward building a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future for Pakistan.

Final Thoughts

The low-cost solar loan initiative is set to fuel a new wave of green adoption among Pakistani startups. By making renewable energy affordable and accessible, the government is empowering entrepreneurs to not only save money but also contribute to the fight against climate change.

For startups in Pakistan, this is the right time to invest in solar power solutions and build a sustainable business model.

PTA Opens Door for Starlink New Satellite Internet License in Pakistan

PTA Opens Door for Starlink New Satellite Internet License in Pakistan

PTA Opens Door for Starlink New Satellite Internet License in Pakistan 2560 1463 D. I. Khan New City

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has released a draft license framework for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS), opening the door for global and local satellite internet providers. This move could revolutionize digital connectivity in Pakistan, especially in underserved regions.

Simplified Licensing for Satellite Internet Providers

Previously, companies needed 15 separate licenses costing $640,000. Now, with PTA’s new framework, providers such as Starlink, OneWeb, and SSST will only need a single license of $500,000 to operate.

Key license features:

  • Validity: 15 years
  • Service Rollout: Must begin within 18 months
  • Gateway Requirement: At least one Earth Station in Pakistan
  • Data Compliance: User data must remain within Pakistan

Registration with Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB)

Before applying for a PTA license, companies must register with PSARB, established under the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024.

PSARB responsibilities include:

  • Licensing & authorization
  • Spectrum coordination
  • Safety regulations
  • Cybersecurity compliance

This ensures alignment with the National Space Policy 2023 and strengthens digital sovereignty.

Financial Commitments for Satellite Operators

The draft license framework clearly outlines financial contributions:

  • $500,000 initial license fee
  • 1.5% of gross revenues to the Universal Service Fund (USF)
  • 0.5% spectrum usage fee
  • 0.5% annual license fee

This model ensures business opportunities while also supporting digital inclusion initiatives.

Impact on Pakistan’s Digital Future

Industry experts believe this is a breakthrough moment for Pakistan’s internet landscape. With simplified processes, Starlink and other satellite providers can expand services, ensuring affordable high-speed broadband for rural and remote communities.

This initiative also supports Pakistan’s goals of:

  • Enhancing digital inclusion
  • Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks
  • Boosting technological competitiveness

Conclusion

PTA’s new FSS license is expected to attract global satellite internet providers, ushering in a new era of digital connectivity in Pakistan. With companies like Starlink eyeing entry, the future of internet access in Pakistan looks brighter than ever.

NDMA Issues Alert as Heavy Rains Forecast Across Pakistan

NDMA Issues Alert as Heavy Rains Forecast Across Pakistan

NDMA Issues Alert as Heavy Rains Forecast Across Pakistan 1008 576 D. I. Khan New City

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh alert as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts widespread rains and thunderstorms across the country. From August 29 to September 2, 2025, heavy downpours are expected in multiple regions, raising concerns over flooding, landslides, and urban inundation.

This alert comes as Pakistan continues to grapple with the challenges of monsoon flooding, threatening lives, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Punjab: High Risk of Flooding

The NDMA has highlighted northern and northeastern Punjab as highly vulnerable, with heavy rains predicted in:

  • Rawalpindi
  • Lahore
  • Sialkot
  • Gujranwala
  • Narowal
  • Mandi Bahauddin
  • Chakwal, Jhelum, and Attock

Flooding in low-lying areas of central and southern Punjab—including Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan—poses a significant threat to local communities.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Landslide Threat

From August 29 to 31, Malakand and Hazara divisions may face landslides due to intense rainfall. Districts at risk include:

  • Swat
  • Chitral
  • Mansehra
  • Abbottabad
  • Buner
  • Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, and Kohat

The mountainous terrain makes these regions especially vulnerable to landslides and road blockages.

AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan: Landslides & GLOFs

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), heavy rains may hit Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Kotli, and Mirpur, raising fears of landslides between August 29 and September 2.

Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan faces risks of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in areas like Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, and Diamer. These events can severely impact local communities and infrastructure.

Sindh: Karachi Faces Urban Flooding

Sindh’s coastal areas, including Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, and Badin, are expected to experience heavy rains between August 30 and September 2.

Urban flooding in Karachi remains a major concern due to poor drainage systems. Interior Sindh districts—Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, and Kashmore—are also on alert.

Balochistan: Coastal and Eastern Districts on Alert

In Gwadar, Kech, Panjgur, Khuzdar, and Lasbela, heavy rains between August 29 and September 1 could trigger flash floods in low-lying areas. With much of the region already waterlogged, additional rainfall could worsen the situation.

NDMA’s Call for Preparedness

The NDMA has urged citizens to remain vigilant and contact local authorities in case of emergencies. Relief operations are being closely monitored, while rescue teams and emergency measures are being deployed to minimize risks.

The authority also warned that rivers Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab may see worsened flooding if rainfall intensifies in adjoining areas.

Conclusion

As Pakistan faces another spell of monsoon rains, proactive measures and community preparedness are crucial. From urban flooding in Karachi to potential GLOFs in Gilgit-Baltistan, the risks are spread across the country. Authorities and citizens must work hand-in-hand to reduce the impact of these natural disasters.

Natural Disasters in Pakistan The Impact of Cloudbursts and Flooding

Natural Disasters in Pakistan The Impact of Cloudbursts and Flooding

Natural Disasters in Pakistan The Impact of Cloudbursts and Flooding 1344 768 D. I. Khan New City

Pakistan is no stranger to natural disasters. From devastating earthquakes to relentless floods, the country faces multiple climate-induced challenges every year. Among the most destructive events are cloudbursts and flash flooding, which have grown more frequent due to climate change and poor urban planning. These disasters not only disrupt lives but also take a heavy toll on infrastructure, agriculture, and the national economy.

What is a Cloudburst and How Does It Affect Pakistan?

A cloudburst is a sudden and extremely heavy rainfall that can cause flash flooding within minutes. In Pakistan, cloudbursts occur frequently in mountainous regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir.

Key Impacts of Cloudbursts:

  • Triggering flash floods that sweep away homes, roads, and bridges.
  • Landslides in hilly areas, cutting off entire communities.
  • Loss of human life and livestock.
  • Damage to crops, leading to food insecurity.

Flooding in Pakistan: A Recurrent Challenge

Flooding is one of the most recurring natural disasters in Pakistan, especially during the monsoon season. The Indus River Basin often sees overflowing rivers, inundating thousands of acres of farmland and displacing millions of people.

Consequences of Flooding in Pakistan:

  • Humanitarian Crisis: Displacement of millions of families.
  • Economic Losses: Billions lost in agriculture, infrastructure, and housing.
  • Health Hazards: Outbreak of waterborne diseases such as cholera and dengue.
  • Environmental Damage: Erosion of fertile land and destruction of ecosystems.

The 2022 floods in Pakistan, for example, submerged one-third of the country, affecting nearly 33 million people and drawing global attention to the scale of vulnerability.

Climate Change and Its Role in Natural Disasters

Climate change has intensified the frequency and severity of cloudbursts and flooding in Pakistan. Rising temperatures are causing glacial melt in the Himalayas, leading to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in northern Pakistan. Meanwhile, erratic monsoon patterns are overwhelming drainage systems in urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

How Can Pakistan Mitigate These Disasters?

While natural disasters cannot be prevented, their impact can be minimized through better planning and preparedness.

Sustainable Solutions for Pakistan:

  • Early Warning Systems: Improve weather forecasting and disaster alerts.
  • Infrastructure Development: Build stronger embankments, dams, and drainage systems.
  • Urban Planning: Enforce zoning laws to prevent illegal settlements in flood-prone areas.
  • Community Training: Educate local communities on disaster response and safety.
  • Climate Action: Reduce deforestation and promote green infrastructure to absorb excess rainwater.

Conclusion

Natural disasters like cloudbursts and flooding in Pakistan are a reminder of the urgent need for sustainable development and disaster preparedness. With strategic investments in climate resilience, infrastructure, and awareness, Pakistan can reduce the devastating impacts of these disasters.

Protecting lives, livelihoods, and the environment is not just a necessity—it is the path toward a safer, more resilient Pakistan.

Unity - Faith - Discipline : The Foundation of Pakistan’s Strength

Unity – Faith – Discipline : The Foundation of Pakistan’s Strength

Unity – Faith – Discipline : The Foundation of Pakistan’s Strength 1500 651 D. I. Khan New City

In August 1947, Pakistan emerged as an independent nation, born from resilience, hope, and determination. At the heart of this journey stood three guiding principles given by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah: Unity, Faith, and Discipline. These timeless values are not just part of our history; they remain essential for shaping our future.

Unity – The Power of Standing Together

Unity was the backbone of the freedom movement. People from different regions, languages, and cultures came together with a shared vision — an independent homeland. This unity was not about erasing differences, but about embracing them under one national identity.
Today, unity still matters. Political divisions, cultural differences, and economic challenges can only be overcome if we work as one nation. From community service to national projects, unity remains our most powerful tool for progress.

Faith – The Strength to Endure

Faith gave people the courage to face hardship. The journey to independence was filled with sacrifices, but the unwavering belief in a better future kept the dream alive.
Faith is more than religion — it is trust in our purpose, our people, and our potential. In modern Pakistan, faith means believing in our ability to grow, innovate, and stand strong on the global stage.

Discipline – The Key to Success

Quaid-e-Azam often reminded us that discipline is essential for any nation’s success. The struggle for Pakistan required organized action, strategic planning, and personal responsibility.
Today, discipline can be seen in how we follow laws, respect time, and commit to excellence in our work. Without discipline, even the greatest plans fail. With it, we can turn vision into reality.

Why These Lessons Matter Today

The challenges we face — economic instability, social divides, and global competition — demand the same spirit that built Pakistan. Unity brings people together. Faith fuels resilience. Discipline turns dreams into achievements.
These lessons from 1947 are not just history; they are a roadmap for the future. If every citizen embraces them, Pakistan can thrive in the decades ahead.

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT-5

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT-5

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT-5 2560 1707 D. I. Khan New City

OpenAI has officially launched ChatGPT-5, the most advanced version yet of its revolutionary language model. Designed to deliver expert-level insights across science, technology, healthcare, and finance, GPT-5 introduces powerful new capabilities aimed at both consumers and enterprises.

Key Highlights of ChatGPT-5

  1. Vibe Coding – Software on Demand

One of the most buzzworthy features of GPT-5 is vibe coding, where the AI can generate complete, working software programs from plain-text prompts. This means developers can turn ideas into functional applications faster than ever before.

  1. PhD-Level Expertise Across Domains

From medical research to economic forecasting, GPT-5 delivers answers with a depth of reasoning that rivals human experts, making it a game-changer for professional problem-solving.

  1. Test-Time Compute for Complex Queries

For the first time, OpenAI has made its test-time compute technology available to the public. This feature gives GPT-5 extra processing power when handling challenging or multi-layered problems, enabling more precise and insightful responses.

Incremental Yet Impactful Improvements

While some reviewers note that the jump from GPT-4 to GPT-5 feels less dramatic than earlier upgrades, the focus on accuracy, coding performance, and reasoning depth is clear. These refinements make GPT-5 a highly reliable partner for both casual users and industry experts.

 

The Business Impact

With GPT-5’s enterprise-grade capabilities, companies can integrate AI into:

  • Software development pipelines for faster product releases.
  • Research and data analysis for market and trend forecasting.
  • Customer service automation with nuanced, context-aware responses.

However, industry analysts caution that while consumer adoption is booming, enterprise investment in AI must catch up to match the massive infrastructure spending by tech giants.

A Global AI Future

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, emphasized the importance of building localised AI infrastructure worldwide to make the benefits of AI accessible to everyone. With a valuation potentially reaching $500 billion, OpenAI is positioning GPT-5 not just as a product but as a step toward a more connected and intelligent global economy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a developer looking to code faster, a business leader seeking data-driven strategies, or a researcher in need of expert-level insight, ChatGPT-5 represents a major leap in what AI can deliver.

The era of “ask anything, build anything” is here — and GPT-5 is ready to power it.

Pakistan and El Salvador Join Forces for Bitcoin Innovation

Pakistan and El Salvador Join Forces for Bitcoin Innovation

Pakistan and El Salvador Join Forces for Bitcoin Innovation 1000 667 D. I. Khan New City

In a groundbreaking diplomatic move, Pakistan has officially stepped onto the global crypto stage. On July 18, 2025, Bilal Bin Saqib — Pakistan’s Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain and CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council — met with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador, a pioneer in national Bitcoin adoption. This historic interaction marks the first-ever high-level Bitcoin-focused engagement between the two nations.

The meeting, held in San Salvador, led to the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI), cementing a formal cooperation framework on Bitcoin and blockchain innovation. With this strategic partnership, Pakistan signals its serious commitment to becoming a forward-thinking player in the global crypto economy.

A New Era of Biplomacy: Bitcoin Meets Diplomacy

Analysts are calling it the dawn of “Biplomacy” — a unique blend of Bitcoin and diplomacy — as decentralised finance becomes an essential part of international relations.

El Salvador’s success in adopting Bitcoin as legal tender has drawn global attention. During the meeting, President Bukele and Minister Saqib explored ways for Pakistan to replicate this success while tailoring it to its own economic landscape. Topics like Bitcoin education, sovereign digital reserves, and blockchain-based regulatory innovation took center stage.

Key Highlights of the Bitcoin Agreement

  • Letter of Intent (LOI) signed between the Bitcoin Office of El Salvador and the Pakistan Crypto Council.
  • Emphasis on Bitcoin education, public-sector blockchain adoption, and financial inclusion.
  • Exchange of knowledge on creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve and crafting a balanced regulatory framework.
  • Focus on positioning Pakistan as a crypto innovation hub among emerging economies.

“El Salvador’s bold Bitcoin experiment has inspired governments around the world. This visit marks the beginning of a strategic relationship rooted in innovation, inclusion, and shared learning,” said Minister Bilal Bin Saqib.

President Bukele, known globally for his visionary approach to crypto policy, praised Pakistan’s proactive stance on digital assets. He also reiterated El Salvador’s support for developing countries leveraging Bitcoin for financial sovereignty and economic uplift.

Pakistan’s Growing Crypto Momentum

This partnership aligns with recent developments in Pakistan’s digital asset landscape:

  • The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) was launched earlier this year to oversee digital asset policy.
  • The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve initiative was announced to future-proof the national economy.
  • Government-backed support is growing for blockchain technology, fintech startups, and digital payment ecosystems.

With these efforts, Pakistan is not just joining the crypto revolution — it’s helping shape it.

Why This Matters for the Future

This is more than just a bilateral agreement — it’s a symbol of emerging-market empowerment. As traditional financial systems face global challenges, Bitcoin and blockchain offer a decentralized alternative that promotes transparency, security, and autonomy.

By collaborating with El Salvador — the world’s first nation to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender — Pakistan is sending a clear message: it’s ready to embrace digital transformation.

Final Thoughts: A Strategic Leap into the Crypto Future

This momentous agreement is a testament to how far Pakistan has come in embracing innovation. With the support of trailblazers like Bilal Bin Saqib and the global experience of President Bukele, the two nations are laying the groundwork for a new digital financial future.

The world is watching. And Pakistan is no longer on the sidelines — it’s becoming a key player in global crypto diplomacy.

Is PayPal Really Available in Pakistan? Here’s the Truth

Is PayPal Really Available in Pakistan? Here’s the Truth

Is PayPal Really Available in Pakistan? Here’s the Truth 1152 896 D. I. Khan New City

In recent weeks, headlines have buzzed with the claim that PayPal is finally available in Pakistan — thanks to an announcement by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). But what’s the real story behind this digital economy update? If you’re a freelancer or digital business owner, here’s what you truly need to know.

What Is the SIFC PayPal Initiative About?

The SIFC recently introduced a trial project allowing 10,000 Pakistani freelancers to receive international payments via PayPal — but through a third-party mediator, not directly through PayPal accounts.

How It Works:

  • Payments sent from abroad via PayPal
  • Routed through a third-party payment facilitator
  • Deposited into local Pakistani bank accounts

At first glance, this seems like great news — but the catch lies in the limitations of this workaround.

Why This Isn’t Official PayPal Access

Despite optimistic government statements, PayPal is still not officially operating in Pakistan. Here’s why experts and freelancers are raising concerns:

  • No direct PayPal accounts for Pakistani users
  • Additional service fees from mediators may cut into freelancer earnings
  • No PayPal customer support access — all queries go through the intermediary
  • Potential service disruptions based on previous third-party platform shutdowns

In short, while it’s a step forward for international payment facilitation, it’s not the true, secure PayPal access Pakistani freelancers have long demanded.

Why PayPal Hasn’t Fully Launched in Pakistan

There are several factors preventing PayPal from launching officially in Pakistan:

  • Regulatory and compliance challenges
  • Business profitability concerns in the local market
  • Ongoing digital identity verification and fraud issues

Unless these critical obstacles are resolved, PayPal is unlikely to establish a formal presence in Pakistan.

What Should Freelancers Do Now?

While this trial project may provide temporary convenience, freelancers are advised to rely on proven, officially operational alternatives like:

  • Payoneer
  • Wise (formerly TransferWise)
  • Skrill

These platforms offer direct international payment solutions with transparent fee structures and dedicated customer support — making them safer and more reliable for freelancers and small businesses.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Cautious

While the PayPal for Pakistan narrative has captured attention, it’s crucial for freelancers to recognize that this is a mediated, limited workaround — not a full PayPal launch. Until the day PayPal officially arrives in Pakistan, exploring and using trusted alternatives remains the smart move.