Pakistan is gearing up to launch its first-ever National Esports Policy and establish a dedicated Esports Federation, a move that aims to formally integrate the country’s rapidly expanding gaming sector into the national digital economy.
According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, the initiative will provide a structured framework for professional players, developers, and innovators in a gaming community that now includes an estimated 60 million Pakistanis.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, said the policy reflects the government’s commitment to empowering the youth through emerging digital industries and creating sustainable career opportunities.
He added that esports has evolved into a multibillion-dollar global industry, with professional players and teams competing for prizes, sponsorships, and international recognition.
“The government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is taking concrete steps to create opportunities for youth in modern digital sectors,” Khan stated, highlighting esports as a core part of Pakistan’s digital growth and innovation strategy.
He further noted that the establishment of an esports federation will help formalize player registration, ensure fair competition, and attract investment from both local and international sponsors. The framework will also encourage innovation in game development, broadcasting, and event management—sectors that have seen rapid growth worldwide.
Pakistan has already gained international recognition in competitive titles such as Tekken and PUBG Mobile, where local players have achieved remarkable success, laying the groundwork for this national initiative.
Officials believe the esports policy will help transform gaming from a recreational activity into a structured industry that contributes to economic growth, global representation, and youth empowerment—placing Pakistan among the countries officially recognizing and supporting esports as a professional discipline.
