ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) on Tuesday said it had granted a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) licence to Alibaba-owned Koko Tech Pakistan Pvt. Ltd (KTPL).

“The entry of Alibaba-backed KTPL marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s digital financial ecosystem,” it said in a press release.

The press release further stated: “One of the world’s leading e-commerce and technology com­­­­p­­­a­­nies, Alibaba’s move into Pakistan reflects growing international confidence in the country’s large consumer base, expanding digital econ­omy, and untapped financial services market.” It said that with its advanced artificial intelligence-driven credit assessment systems and globally tested digital infrastructure, KTPL was expected to introduce “innovative, data-driven lending solutions” in the BNPL space.

“This will enhance access to consumer financing, particularly for young users, freelancers, and small businesses that remain underserved by traditional banking channels,” the press release said.

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2026