Changpeng Zhao Joins Pakistan Crypto Council as Strategic Advisor

Advancing Cryptocurrency Innovation in Pakistan

In a significant development for Pakistan’s burgeoning cryptocurrency landscape, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the co-founder and former CEO of Binance—the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange—has been appointed as a strategic advisor to the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC). This move is expected to bolster crypto innovation and adoption in the country.

Official Announcement and High-Level Meetings

The finance ministry revealed this appointment on Monday, following Zhao’s discussions with key PCC figures, including Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb, who chairs the council, and CEO Bilal Bin Saqib. During his visit to Islamabad, Zhao also engaged with Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, underscoring the significance of his role.

Regulatory Framework and Global Investment

Established just a month ago by the government, the PCC aims to formulate a coherent regulatory framework for cryptocurrency trading. This strategic initiative seeks to attract international investment. Although cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) are not officially regulated in Pakistan, they remain legal. The State Bank of Pakistan has not permitted any entities to conduct transactions involving virtual currencies since January 16, 2021.

Senator’s Vision for Pakistan

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted the importance of this development, stating, “This is a landmark moment for Pakistan; we are sending a clear message to the world: Pakistan is open for innovation.” With the addition of Binance’s former CEO, the council aims to fast-track its vision of establishing Pakistan as a regional hub for Web3, digital finance, and blockchain technology.

Changpeng Zhao’s Strategic Role

As a strategic advisor, Zhao will provide essential guidance on various fronts, including regulation, infrastructure development, education, and the widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies. His role involves close collaboration with both governmental and private sector entities to cultivate a compliant, inclusive, and globally competitive crypto ecosystem in Pakistan.

Unlocking Pakistan’s Potential

Zhao expressed confidence in Pakistan’s potential for cryptocurrency growth, stating, “Pakistan is a country of 240 million people, over 60 percent of whom are under the age of 30. The potential here is limitless.”

Zhao’s Influence in the Crypto Industry

Despite recent legal challenges, including stepping down as Binance CEO and a $4.3 billion settlement with US authorities over anti-money laundering issues, Zhao remains a pivotal figure in the crypto world. As of January 2025, Forbes estimated his net worth at approximately $66.6 billion, ranking him as the second-richest Canadian and the 24th richest globally.

Zhao’s Journey in the Cryptocurrency Sector

Zhao’s career in cryptocurrency began in 2013 with the team that developed Blockchain.info. He later served as Chief Technology Officer for OKCoin before launching Binance in July 2017. Within eight months, Binance became the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, following a successful $15 million initial coin offering (ICO).