Pakistan is exploring the introduction of a rupee-backed stablecoin and a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to enhance financial inclusion and tap into significant economic opportunities. The State Bank of Pakistan, with assistance from the World Bank and IMF, is developing a CBDC prototype aimed at reducing remittance costs and improving access for the unbanked population. Zafar Masud, President of the Pakistan Banks Association, highlighted the potential loss of $20–$25 billion in economic opportunities if regulatory delays persist. Pakistan currently ranks third globally in crypto adoption, as per Chainalysis' 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index.