In a decisive push toward a digital future, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is personally leading efforts to transform Pakistan into a cashless and digitally empowered economy. The Prime Minister’s office has confirmed that he is holding bi-weekly meetings to closely monitor the country’s progress in this domain, reflecting his commitment to Digital Pakistan initiatives.
To drive this nationwide transformation, the Prime Minister has established three specialized committees tasked with promoting and implementing cashless economy strategies. These committees are responsible for introducing practical measures to expand digital payment adoption across public and private sectors, ensuring that citizens and businesses alike benefit from seamless, secure, and convenient financial services.
Among the landmark initiatives being rolled out under the Prime Minister’s direction is the ASAAN KHIDMAT program, set to launch in the first quarter of 2026. This program aims to integrate digital services for citizens, enabling smoother access to governmental and financial services through user-friendly digital platforms. Officials indicate that ASAAN KHIDMAT will simplify procedures, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and strengthen the overall ecosystem for cashless transactions in the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s focus on digitalization is not merely about technological adoption—it is also tied to ambitious economic targets. Authorities have set a goal of contributing 10 billion dollars to the national economy over the next four years through digital finance initiatives. This target underscores the government’s belief that leveraging fintech solutions, digital payments, and other technology-driven financial services can significantly boost economic activity, enhance transparency, and foster inclusive growth.
Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja has highlighted that the Prime Minister’s personal involvement in these initiatives is unprecedented and a key factor in their expected success. The ministry is coordinating with various stakeholders in the financial sector, including banks, fintech companies, and regulatory bodies, to ensure that the transition to a digital economy is smooth, secure, and widely accessible.
The government’s push for a cashless economy is aligned with global trends, where countries are increasingly prioritizing digital payments, mobile banking, and financial inclusion. By adopting these strategies, Pakistan aims to modernize its financial infrastructure, reduce reliance on cash, and improve efficiency in government service delivery.
Analysts believe that these initiatives could serve as a catalyst for broader digital adoption across the country, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship in the fintech and digital finance sectors. With a coordinated approach and strong political will, Pakistan’s vision of a digitally driven economy appears to be gaining tangible momentum.
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