Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the founder and former CEO of Binance, has been appointed as a Strategic Advisor to the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC). This development marks a significant step for Pakistan as it seeks to advance its digital finance and blockchain ecosystem. The announcement was made on April 7, 2025, during CZ’s visit to Islamabad, where he met with high-ranking officials, including Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the Prime Minister, and representatives from the State Bank of Pakistan and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
In his role, CZ is expected to provide guidance on cryptocurrency regulation, infrastructure development, education, and adoption, leveraging his extensive experience in building Binance into the world’s largest crypto exchange. Finance Minister Aurangzeb, who also chairs the PCC, described the appointment as a “landmark moment,” emphasizing Pakistan’s ambition to become a regional leader in Web3 and blockchain-driven growth. PCC CEO Bilal Bin Saqib echoed this sentiment, highlighting CZ’s pioneering role in the crypto industry and his potential to help Pakistan embrace the future of finance.
Changpeng Zhao’s (CZ) appointment as Strategic Advisor to the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) carries several significant implications for Pakistan’s cryptocurrency landscape, its economy, and its position in the global digital finance ecosystem. With over 60% of Pakistan’s 240 million population being under 30, a tech-savvy demographic, CZ’s expertise could drive widespread cryptocurrency adoption. His track record with Binance suggests he may push for user-friendly platforms and education initiatives to onboard millions. CZ’s involvement could accelerate the development of blockchain and crypto infrastructure, such as local exchanges, wallets, and payment systems, tailored to Pakistan’s needs.
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This could reduce reliance on informal channels like P2P trading, which currently dominate due to regulatory uncertainty. CZ’s global perspective could help Pakistan craft a regulatory framework that encourages innovation while addressing risks like money laundering and fraud—issues that have historically slowed crypto progress in the region. His influence might align Pakistan’s policies with international standards, such as those from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Having a figure like CZ, a prominent name in the crypto world, advising the PCC could lend credibility to Pakistan’s efforts, reassuring both domestic users and foreign investors wary of regulatory ambiguity.
CZ’s appointment signals Pakistan’s seriousness about digital finance, potentially attracting investment from global crypto firms, including Binance itself. This could bring capital inflows, job creation, and technological know-how. Pakistan receives over $30 billion annually in remittances, often through costly traditional channels. CZ could advocate for blockchain-based solutions to lower fees and improve efficiency, a move that aligns with his past focus on financial inclusion. If successful, Pakistan could position itself as a regional hub for blockchain and Web3 innovation, competing with countries like the UAE or Singapore and diversifying its economy beyond traditional sectors.
Neighboring India has taken a cautious-to-hostile stance on crypto, with heavy taxation and regulatory hurdles. Pakistan, under CZ’s guidance, could leapfrog India by fostering a more welcoming environment, gaining a first-mover advantage in South Asia. Given CZ’s Chinese-Canadian background and Binance’s global reach, his involvement might subtly strengthen Pakistan’s ties with China, a key ally, in the digital economy space, especially as China explores blockchain despite its crypto ban. While CZ’s influence may push for progressive policies, resistance from conservative financial institutions like the State Bank of Pakistan, which banned crypto trading in 2018 (later partially eased), could create friction.
Crypto’s price swings and past scandals (e.g., FTX collapse) might make Pakistani authorities hesitant, even with CZ’s assurances, especially in a country with economic instability and high inflation. Though a crypto titan, CZ stepped down as Binance CEO in 2023 amid a $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities over compliance issues. This history could raise skepticism about his advisory role, though his expertise remains undisputed. CZ’s emphasis on education (seen in Binance Academy) could lead to programs that demystify crypto for Pakistan’s youth, reducing scams and fostering a skilled workforce in blockchain technology.
With a significant unbanked population, crypto could empower rural and underserved communities, though this hinges on accessible internet and smartphone penetration. CZ’s role could catalyze Pakistan’s emergence as a crypto-friendly nation, driving economic growth and innovation while navigating regulatory and cultural challenges. Success depends on how effectively his vision aligns with local realities and government cooperation. If executed well, this could be a transformative move for Pakistan’s digital future.