The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised serious concerns over Pakistan’s recent decision to allocate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and AI data centres without prior consultation. The Fund has demanded an explanation for moving forward with the initiative while the legal status of cryptocurrency in the country remains unresolved.
According to sources, the IMF will address the issue in an upcoming virtual meeting with government officials. The Fund emphasized that such major policy decisions must align with the IMF programme and be made with mutual understanding.
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This development follows a report by the Ministry of Finance, which revealed that the allocation was part of a broader national strategy led by the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC). The initiative aims to utilize surplus energy, boost high-tech employment, and attract foreign investment.
While the move signals Pakistan’s ambition to become a global digital innovation hub, the IMF’s response indicates possible friction ahead, especially as budget discussions between the two sides continue.
