IMF Raises Concerns Over Pakistan's Bitcoin Mining Power Plan
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed concerns over Pakistan's plan to allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence data centers, citing ongoing energy shortages and budget talks. The initiative, announced last week, aims to attract autonomous miners, blockchain companies, and AI firms to the country.
The IMF has requested urgent clarification from the Finance Ministry regarding the legality of crypto mining and power allocations, particularly as Pakistan struggles with chronic energy shortages and fiscal pressures. According to a report by local news outlets Samaa, the Fund was not consulted prior to the announcement and is questioning the legal standing of cryptocurrencies in Pakistan.
The move has added complexity to ongoing negotiations tied to Pakistan's extended financial program. An official involved in the talks reportedly stated that there is a fear of further tough talks from the IMF on this initiative, with the economic team already facing stiff questions.
A Concerned IMF Delegation
The IMF delegation, currently conducting virtual discussions with Pakistani officials, is expected to schedule a separate session dedicated to the government's electricity plan for Bitcoin mining and AI operations. This development follows Pakistan's high-profile debut of its first strategic Bitcoin reserve at the Bitcoin Vegas 2025 conference last week.
During the conference, Bilal bin Saqib, crypto adviser to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, announced the launch of a national Bitcoin wallet and the government's commitment to support the digital asset sector. This move signals Islamabad's pivot toward digital finance.
A Shift in Pakistan's Stance on Cryptocurrencies
Pakistan's government began shifting its stance on cryptocurrencies earlier this year with the proposal of a "National Crypto Council" in February 2025. The body was tasked with drafting a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets and attracting foreign investment to the country's growing crypto ecosystem.
Among the Council's early proposals were plans to utilize surplus energy for Bitcoin mining and data center operations, as well as building a national Bitcoin reserve. Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao was also appointed as an adviser to the Council in April, providing guidance on crypto regulations, blockchain infrastructure, and digital asset adoption.
However, the IMF's concerns over the power plan highlight the complexities surrounding Pakistan's foray into the cryptocurrency sector. As the country navigates this new landscape, it remains to be seen how its efforts will impact the global cryptocurrency market and the nation's economy as a whole.
A Separate Session on Bitcoin Mining Plans
The IMF delegation is expected to schedule a separate session dedicated to the government's electricity plan for Bitcoin mining and AI operations. This development follows the announcement of Pakistan's first strategic Bitcoin reserve at the Bitcoin Vegas 2025 conference last week.
This move suggests that the IMF is taking a closer look at Pakistan's plans for cryptocurrency adoption and regulation, highlighting the need for clarity on the country's stance on digital assets.