Pakistan is significantly intensifying efforts toward tech modernization. A draft national AI policy, built on five key pillars—AI innovation, awareness, security, transformation, and global cooperation—was shaped through input from UNESCO and stakeholders during a national dialogue, setting the stage for an inclusive, rights-based digital future.
Adding to this, the government established the Pakistan Chapter of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), marking the nation’s first formal membership in the global AI research community. With access to thousands of international research papers and networking opportunities for events like regional AAAI conferences, Pakistan’s AI ecosystem is gaining international visibility.
Leading policy progress, the National Taskforce on Artificial Intelligence—under the Planning Ministry—has been mandated to drive the AI implementation roadmap. It focuses on 12 key sectors including agriculture, health, education, climate, and governance to integrate AI for socioeconomic impact.
Controversy surrounds AI rollout strategy, as the Ministry of Information Technology rejected the idea of a standalone AI regulatory body, instead prioritizing establishment of a broader Digital Nation Pakistan framework, aiming for coherent digital transformation across sectors before specific AI oversight is imposed.
On the regulatory front, Pakistan launched the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) in July 2025 to oversee licensing and operation of virtual asset services. The move supports the government’s larger crypto strategy under the Pakistan Crypto Council, with initiatives like a national Bitcoin reserve and subsidized power for crypto mining and AI infrastructure.
Additionally, Pakistani tech firms are pitching internationally. The UAE-based AI Everything Summit spotlighted 11 leading local firms and startups, and Pakistan’s presence at London Tech Week 2025 showcased talent and ambition to global investors and alliances. Meanwhile, at the Pakistan–US Tech Investment Conference, Islamabad emphasized cross-border digital partnerships, tech exports, and tech-driven economic diplomacy.
In sustainability-focused tech, Chinese EV maker BYD is preparing its first assembly plant in Karachi, with operations set to begin by mid-2026. Government incentives, including a 45% cut in electricity tariffs for EV chargers, illustrate Pakistan’s focus on electric vehicles and green innovation.
