Pakistan is preparing to launch its first-ever national esports policy alongside the establishment of a dedicated federation to oversee the country’s growing gaming ecosystem. The initiative marks a major step in formalizing support for professional gamers, developers, and digital creators, with an estimated 60 million gaming enthusiasts across the nation. It also reflects the increasing recognition of esports as a vital part of the digital economy and a potential avenue for youth employment and innovation.
According to an official statement, the esports policy is being developed under the supervision of Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program. He emphasized that the move is aligned with the government’s mission to empower young people through technology-driven platforms. Khan noted that esports is now a multibillion-dollar industry worldwide, offering significant financial potential through international competitions, sponsorships, and prize pools. By introducing this policy framework, Pakistan aims to build institutional support for gamers, promote esports as a legitimate profession, and establish the country as a recognized player in the global gaming landscape.
The policy will serve as a foundation for developing training programs, infrastructure, and partnerships with international gaming organizations. It will also encourage local developers and esports teams to participate in global events while fostering a sustainable environment for talent development. The government’s broader technology strategy, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, places digital innovation and youth engagement at its core. Officials view esports as one of the most dynamic areas where young Pakistanis can gain international exposure and contribute to the creative economy. With initiatives such as this policy, the government seeks to harness the digital potential of Pakistan’s youth and channel it into structured opportunities that combine skill, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.
Pakistan has already achieved recognition in several international esports titles, including Tekken and PUBG Mobile, where local players have competed successfully on global stages. These achievements have highlighted the country’s potential to become a competitive force in professional gaming. However, until now, the absence of a national policy framework has limited structured growth, funding, and coordination. The establishment of the esports federation is expected to address these challenges by providing governance, promoting fair play, and facilitating participation in regional and international tournaments.
With the upcoming esports policy, Pakistan aims to transform its vast base of casual gamers into professional competitors, content creators, and developers who can contribute to both local and international markets. By offering a clear regulatory framework and institutional support, the policy not only validates esports as a profession but also positions Pakistan as an emerging hub for digital entertainment in South Asia.
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