Binance CZ Says Pakistan Could Become a Global Crypto Leader by 2030

• CZ predicts Pakistan could become a top global crypto hub by 2030.
• Tokenization and blockchain projects offer new opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs.
• Education, training, and clear regulations are key to sustaining crypto growth in Pakistan.

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao believes Pakistan is on track to become one of the world’s leading crypto hubs within the next five years. Speaking with Pakistan Crypto Council CEO Bilal bin Saqib, Zhao pointed to the country’s fast-moving leadership and strong demand for crypto assets from a young, tech-savvy population as key advantages.

According to Zhao, speed and clarity in policy are critical in the global crypto race, and Pakistan has shown an unusual ability to move decisively compared to many larger economies.

Pakistan’s Rapid Push Into Crypto Regulation

Over the past year, Pakistan has taken several concrete steps to formalize its crypto ecosystem. The country established the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, opening the door for major exchanges like Binance and HTX to operate locally. Additionally, it has begun work on a national Bitcoin reserve.

Authorities are also exploring real-world asset tokenization as a way to attract foreign capital and improve liquidity in local markets. These moves come despite Pakistan starting the year without a comprehensive legal framework for crypto, even as it ranked among the top countries globally for adoption in 2025.

Tokenization Seen as a Gateway to Global Capital

Zhao was particularly optimistic about Pakistan’s plans to tokenize parts of its financial markets. He argued that tokenization could allow global investors to gain direct exposure to Pakistani stocks and assets, effectively channeling international investment into the local economy.

In his view, countries that move early on stock and asset tokenization are likely to benefit the most, as they set standards and attract liquidity before others catch up. 

Pakistan has already signed a memorandum of understanding with Binance to explore tokenizing billions of dollars’ worth of government securities and commodity reserves.

Blockchain Opportunities for Young Entrepreneurs

Beyond large-scale reforms, Zhao highlighted blockchain as a major opportunity for individuals and small businesses. He noted that traditional banking and artificial intelligence startups often require heavy capital, infrastructure, and data, making them difficult for young founders to enter.

On the other hand, blockchain projects are largely virtual and have lower barriers to entry, making them more accessible to new entrepreneurs. Zhao described crypto as one of the most open environments for innovation, stressing that education and ecosystem support will be essential.

Education and Infrastructure Remain Key

While optimistic, Zhao noted that long-term success will depend on more than regulation alone. He pointed to the need for stronger university programs and training initiatives to help turn Pakistan’s crypto momentum into sustainable economic growth.

If these elements come together and the current pace is sustained, Zhao believes Pakistan could emerge as a major global player in crypto by 2030, setting an example for other emerging markets looking to compete in the digital asset economy.

Related: Pakistan Pushes Bitcoin Legalization as Chainalysis Ranks Adoption No. 3 in 2025