On April 14, 2026, global e-commerce and technology giant Alibaba officially marked its entry into Pakistan. The company will make direct investments in the country. Consequently, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) license to CocoTech Pakistan.

CocoTech Pakistan operates as a direct subsidiary of the internationally renowned Alibaba Group. Moving forward, the company will introduce a “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) model to the local market. This Buy Now, Pay Later service allows consumers to purchase goods from various e-commerce platforms. Afterward, buyers can pay for these items through easy installment plans.

Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu, Chairman of the SECP, highlighted the significance of this development. He stated that Pakistan features a large consumer market. Furthermore, the country boasts a rapidly growing digital economy. As a result, the region holds deep interest for international investors. Additionally, Dr. Sidhu noted that Pakistan’s financial services sector contains vast opportunities for growth.

Alibaba’s entry will directly impact the local digital economy. Specifically, Dr. Sidhu emphasized that financial access will dramatically improve for the youth, freelancers, and small businesses. Ultimately, the inclusion of the Alibaba Group will drive much-needed competition and push innovation within the Pakistani market.