ISLAMABAD: The federal government is planning to impose a capital gains tax (CGT) by preparing to bring cryptocurrency transactions into the tax net in the upcoming fiscal year's of 2026-2027 budget.
The government is considering imposing a capital gains tax ranging from 15% to 30% on profits earned through crypto trading.
The proposed measures are being discussed as part of broader efforts to regulate the growing digital asset sector in the country.
The move reportedly comes after consultations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has urged Pakistan to ensure that gains from digital businesses and virtual assets are properly taxed.
Authorieties are reviewing options to include a capital gains tax clause on crypto transactions under Section 37 of the Income Tax Ordinance.
Furthermore the profits earned from cryptocurrency trading could soon become taxable. To support the process, the Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority has been directed to prepare tax related proposals.
The authority has already submitted recommendations aimed at bringing crypto users and digital asset activities under a formal tax framework.
A special committee has also been formed to assess the number of cryptocurrency users in Pakistan, the volume of transactions, and the most effective tax collection mechanism.
The government is also working on plans to legalize virtual assets and introduce a regulated digital currency system. Under the proposed framework, Pakistani rupees could be converted into digital currency, allowing users to legally buy, sell, and trade virtual assets.
The measures are intended to improve oversight of the crypto sector, increase tax revenues, and create a regulated environment for digital asset transactions. However, final decisions are expected to be announced in the upcoming federal budget.
