Over the past few weeks, social media has been flooded with posts and viral videos claiming that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is set to issue new currency notes in 2025. Many users even shared fake images of redesigned polymer notes, especially of Rs.100 and Rs.1,000 denominations, suggesting that Pakistan’s paper currency would soon be replaced by plastic notes.
These rumors quickly gained traction online, creating confusion among citizens and raising unnecessary speculation about changes to Pakistan’s currency system.
SBP Issues Official Clarification
To address these widespread rumors, the State Bank of Pakistan released an official statement on August 15, 2025, strongly denying all claims about the introduction of new or redesigned banknotes.
According to the central bank, no proposal or plan currently exists for replacing the country’s existing currency series or for launching polymer notes.
Here’s a summary of SBP’s clarification:
| Claim | SBP’s Response |
|---|---|
| New design of currency notes under discussion | ❌ False |
| Launch of plastic/polymer notes | ❌ Incorrect |
| Nationwide release in 2025 | ❌ Baseless |
| Replacement of existing currency | ❌ No — all current notes remain valid |
The SBP reaffirmed that all current denominations — Rs.10, Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500, Rs.1,000, and Rs.5,000 — remain legal tender and are fully valid for transactions across Pakistan.
How the Fake News Spread
The false information originated from a TikTok video that showed a photoshopped Rs.1,000 note made to look like a modern polymer design. The clip went viral on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, prompting blogs and pages to claim that “new currency notes” featuring landmarks like the Badshahi Mosque, Faisal Mosque, and K2 were about to be introduced.
Some unauthentic websites even spread stories that these “special edition” notes would be auctioned for high prices, which the SBP later confirmed to be entirely fabricated.
SBP’s Public Advisory
In its statement, the State Bank of Pakistan urged the public to stay cautious and rely only on official communication channels. To prevent the spread of misinformation or potential scams, the SBP advised citizens to:
- ✅ Follow official SBP press releases and verified social media pages.
- 🚫 Avoid clicking or sharing links that claim to sell or reserve “new currency notes.”
- 📞 Report suspicious content or fake news to the SBP helpline (111-727-273).
The central bank emphasized that no individual or private entity is authorized to announce or distribute currency on its behalf.
Current Status of Pakistan’s Currency
All existing banknotes from Rs.10 to Rs.5,000 continue to be valid and in circulation. The SBP has not introduced any new design or denomination.
However, it did issue a Rs.75 commemorative coin earlier this year to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day, reaffirming that its focus remains on special coins and digital payment initiatives, rather than redesigning banknotes.
The central bank also continues to strengthen public awareness about counterfeit note prevention and digital transaction safety through educational campaigns and workshops nationwide.
Conclusion
To sum up, the State Bank of Pakistan has officially confirmed that no new series of currency notes will be launched in 2025. All circulating notes remain authentic, valid, and fully usable for every type of transaction.
Citizens are encouraged to trust only verified SBP updates and refrain from spreading unverified online content about Pakistan’s currency.Citizens are encouraged to trust only verified SBP updates and refrain from spreading unverified online content about Pakistan’s currency.
