đšJUST IN: Pakistan to Launch First-Ever Digital Rupee Pilot
Whatâs Happening:
* đșThe State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is preparing to launch a pilot program for its first-ever Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) as part of broader financial modernization efforts.
* đșLegislation nearly complete: The Virtual Assets Act, 2025 has been approved, establishing a regulatory framework for virtual assets and a licensing authority.
* đșThe SBPâs CBDC pilot will utilize Soramitsuâs blockchain platform, backed by funding from Japanâs Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry under the Global South Future-Oriented Co-Creation Project.âš
* đșThe initiative aims to boost financial inclusion, reduce cash distribution costs, and modernize Pakistanâs payment systems, especially in rural, cash-dependent areas.âš
Why It Matters:
* âĄïžPakistan joins a growing list of countries (e.g., China, India, Nigeria) exploring CBDCs to respond to the digital transformation of money.âš
* âĄïžOffline transaction capability is being developed to accommodate limited internet coverage in remote areasâmaking this project scalable across similar developing markets.âš
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