Pakistan has officially taken a major step toward regulating the cryptocurrency industry by passing the Virtual Assets Act 2026. This new law establishes a clear legal framework to supervise and manage digital financial activities across the country.

Under this legislation, a new regulatory body called the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has been formally created. Its main responsibility will be to oversee the virtual asset sector and regulate companies that provide crypto-related services.

Although PVARA was first introduced in July 2025 through a presidential ordinance, the approval of this Act by parliament now gives the authority a permanent legal foundation.

According to the law, any company offering virtual asset services in Pakistan will need to obtain a license from PVARA. The authority will monitor their operations and ensure they follow financial, security, and legal regulations.

Another important part of the Act focuses on preventing illegal financial activities, including money laundering and the financing of terrorism within the digital asset industry.

Officials say the new framework will help improve transparency, strengthen financial oversight, and encourage the responsible growth of innovative financial technologies in Pakistan.

Additionally, the legislation brings Pakistan’s crypto regulations closer to global standards for digital asset supervision and compliance, which was also an important requirement linked to the country’s programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Overall, the Virtual Assets Act 2026 marks a significant development in Pakistan’s journey toward building a regulated and secure digital asset ecosystem.#Binance