Pakistan Allocates 2000 MW for Crypto Mining, AI Centers Amid IMF Concerns and Investment Surge
May 26, 2025
Future phases of the initiative will focus on leveraging renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and hydropower, to ensure sustainability and address environmental concerns.
To further attract investment, the Ministry of Finance has introduced tax breaks for AI centers and duty exemptions for crypto miners, with advisory support from Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao.
The newly established Pakistan Digital Assets Authority is set to regulate the growing crypto sector, emphasizing the need for a transparent investment framework.
The plan aims to draw international firms, with several already engaging in exploratory discussions in Pakistan.
Underutilized coal power plants, currently operating at only 15% capacity, are expected to be repurposed to support this initiative, addressing ongoing energy sector challenges.
Following the announcement, Bitcoin's trading volume surged by 8.5% to approximately 35 billion USD, indicating heightened investor activity.
The Pakistani government has announced the allocation of 2000 MW of electricity specifically for cryptocurrency mining and AI data centers, positioning the nation as a potential global leader in digital innovation.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to monetize surplus energy, create high-tech jobs, and attract billions in foreign investments, as outlined by the finance ministry.
However, this ambitious initiative raises concerns among international creditors, particularly since Pakistan recently secured a $2.1 billion loan package from the IMF, which has cautioned against government involvement in Bitcoin.
The government anticipates that the initiative will generate tech-related jobs and attract foreign investment, which is crucial for stabilizing the economy that was on the brink of default in 2023.
Research indicates that if half of the allocated power is utilized for Bitcoin mining, Pakistan could potentially produce around 17,000 Bitcoins annually, valued at over $1.8 billion at current prices.
While the initiative could drive economic growth and job creation, there are concerns it may exacerbate wealth inequality, particularly affecting rural areas that lack consistent energy access.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

Economic Times • May 26, 2025
Pakistan allocates 2,000 MW electricity to power Bitcoin mining, AI data centres
CoinDesk • May 26, 2025
Pakistan Taps Surplus Power Capacity to Fuel Bitcoin Mining, AI Data Centers
Business Standard • May 26, 2025
Pakistan allocates 2,000 MW to bitcoin mining and AI data centres
The Hindu • May 26, 2025
Pakistan allocates 2,000 megawatts of electricity to bitcoin mining, AI data centres