
In line with Pakistanis' ever-growing interest in esports, the government is gearing up to launch the country's first-ever National Esports Policy, a significant move aimed at enhancing the rapidly growing gaming ecosystem.
The policy is aimed not only at regulating and organising Pakistan's video gaming industry, but also at facilitating gamers and developers with the help of a structured framework.
It was reported that Pakistan has around 60 million gaming enthusiasts, with most having immense potential for the digital gaming industry.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, the chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, said Pakistan's National Esports Policy signifies the government's commitment to empowering youth through digital innovation. He also noted that esports is a multibillion-dollar global industry, which provides Pakistani players opportunities to compete internationally and gain sponsorships and huge monetary prizes.
The policy is expected to formalise the gaming community and attract investment, positioning esports as a key element of Pakistan’s strides in excelling in technology through a digital revolution.
However, that is not without scepticism within the gaming community. Many expressed fear that government involvement might hinder the organic growth of esports, which has thrived on player passion and community support without formal backing.
Other major concerns that are prevailing are about bureaucratic interference, corruption, and favouritism.
Moreover, issues such as visa difficulties for international tournaments remain unaddressed, urging the government to prioritise these real barriers before implementing new policies.
Gamers and developers believe that until these foundational issues are resolved, policy announcements may seem more performative than genuinely supportive.