In a significant development for the cryptocurrency landscape in Pakistan, the nation’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has issued “No Objection Certificates” (NOCs) to two major crypto exchanges, Binance and HTX. This move marks a pivotal step towards formalizing the operational framework for digital asset trading in the country.
While the NOCs do not equate to full licenses, they grant Binance and HTX the green light to commence necessary preparatory actions. These include registering with Pakistan’s anti-money laundering system and establishing local entities before they can formally apply for full licenses, according to sources.
Tokenization Initiatives and Local Partnerships
The finance ministry has indicated that the NOCs may facilitate tokenization initiatives involving government bonds, treasury bills, and commodity reserves. This initiative seeks to innovate liquidity options and broaden access to government assets through blockchain-based tokens.
Pakistan takes a decisive step toward a regulated digital asset future.
Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) has issued NOCs to Binance and HTX, launching a phased, FATF-aligned pathway toward full licensing. Strong governance, AML and CFT compliance remain… pic.twitter.com/jSk6JTqvFt
— Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (@PakistanVARA) December 12, 2025
Upon granting these approvals, the virtual-assets authority indicated that it meticulously evaluated governance, risk controls, and compliance frameworks. The NOCs pave the way for the exchanges to connect with Pakistan’s AML systems and coordinate with the Securities and Exchange Commission to establish regulated subsidiaries, aligning local operations with international standards.
Fast-Paced Local Collaboration
Discussions have already commenced involving local payment platforms and government organizations, aiming to explore how regulated access to virtual assets can extend financial services for everyday users while effectively managing risks. Such commercial partnerships could expedite customer access to crypto services, contingent on subsequent regulatory approvals.
Interestingly, Pakistan is ranked third globally in retail crypto activity, a position that has motivated authorities to prioritize the development of a formal regulatory regime.
The impending framework is expected to be reinforced by a Virtual Assets Act and additional measures, including a pilot program for central bank digital currency (CBDC) and efforts surrounding stablecoins. The overarching goal is to establish a framework for trading and payments under a clear oversight structure, ultimately attracting compliant investments.
Next Steps for Binance and HTX
Though Binance and HTX have received NOCs, they must fulfill the conditions for full licensing before they can publicly offer trading services. The issuance of these NOCs represents just the opening maneuver in a broader regulatory journey. The future of crypto trading in Pakistan will depend on how well these exchanges meet the regulatory standards and how effectively the proposed Virtual Assets Act is put into practice.
As the market watches for advancements in tokenization and licensing milestones, Pakistan has signaled a clear transition from unregulated activities to a more structured and recognized framework for digital asset operations.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
