Cabinet approves Pakistan's first national esports policy
The federal cabinet has cleared a policy that treats competitive gaming as a professional and economic sector and promises a new national federation.
Pakistan's federal cabinet approved the country's first national esports policy on Wednesday 8 July, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan. The policy formally recognises competitive gaming as a professional, educational and economic sector, and sets out how the state intends to regulate and promote it.
The document was drawn up by the esports task force, which was chaired by Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, chairman of the Prime Minister's Youth Programme. The programme described the approval as a major step towards skills development, jobs and entrepreneurship, APP reported.
The government will set up an Esports Federation of Pakistan to oversee the sector. The policy also promises structured competitive pathways for players, institutional support, and measures to encourage innovation and digital skills. It places particular weight on training in game development, animation, visual effects and other emerging technologies, which is where studios and startups look for talent.
A framework for many players
The policy builds a national framework around cooperation between government, the private sector, universities, telecom operators, game publishers and professional players. Technical input and international practice came from the British Esports Federation and the Commonwealth Secretariat, APP said.
Responsible gaming is also part of the text. The policy says it will safeguard the wellbeing of young players while still encouraging them to take part. The government plans to expand digital infrastructure, strengthen governance and attract international partners.
The announcement carries no budget, job target or timeline for the federation, and APP reported no figures. Those details will decide whether the policy changes anything for studios, tournament organisers and players. Pakistan has a large gaming audience but has lacked a single body to set rules, certify events or speak for the industry.
Reported from an Associated Press of Pakistan report of the cabinet decision.
