Pakistan Allocates 2,000MW to Bitcoin Mining and AI Data Centers in Digital Transformation Drive
In a significant move towards digital innovation, the Government of Pakistan has announced the allocation of 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity to support Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. This initiative, led by the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) under the Ministry of Finance, aims to monetize surplus electricity, attract foreign investment, and create high-tech employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the strategic importance of this allocation, stating that it marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey. By repurposing underutilized power generation capacity, the country seeks to convert a long-standing financial liability into a sustainable, revenue-generating opportunity.
The initiative is expected to position Pakistan as a global hub for data centers, leveraging its geographic location as a digital bridge between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The recent landing of the Africa-2 Cable Project, a 45,000-kilometer global network connecting 33 countries, further enhances Pakistan’s digital connectivity, bandwidth, and resilience.
Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the PCC, highlighted the transformative nature of this initiative. With proper regulation, transparency, and international collaboration, Pakistan aims to become a global powerhouse in the crypto and AI sectors. The initiative not only unlocks high-value investment but also enables the government to generate foreign exchange in US dollars through Bitcoin mining.
The government’s decision to legalize cryptocurrency and establish a regulatory framework aligns with global trends and addresses challenges in the energy sector, including high electricity tariffs and surplus generation capacity. By offering stable and affordable energy, Pakistan presents a competitive environment compared to regional counterparts.
This strategic allocation is the first phase of a broader, multi-stage digital infrastructure rollout, aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for AI data centers and the global shortage in supply. Pakistan’s combination of surplus power, geographic advantage, advanced subsea cable connectivity, and a large, digitally engaged population creates a compelling case for becoming a regional epicenter of Web3, AI, and digital innovation.
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