Pakistan freelancers drive surge in IT export earnings

Pakistan’s information technology sector continues to show steady growth, with freelancers playing a key role in boosting export earnings amid ongoing policy reforms and institutional support. Officials attribute the progress to consistent policies and initiatives under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), which have helped create a more enabling environment for digital workers.

According to available data, Pakistani freelancers earned $856 million in foreign exchange by the third quarter of fiscal year 2026, marking a significant 50 per cent increase compared to $567 million during the same period last year. The rise of $289 million highlights the expanding footprint of Pakistani talent in the global freelance marketplace.

Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association, Ibrahim Amin, said thousands of individuals are entering the freelance economy each month through government and private sector training programmes. He noted that initiatives led by the Ministry of IT, the Pakistan Software Export Board, and SIFC are helping equip workers with digital skills and connecting them to international clients.

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Former chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), Zohaib Khan, also acknowledged the positive trajectory of the sector. He said that since the establishment of SIFC, the IT industry has experienced notable growth over the past three years.

Khan added that recent measures by the State Bank of Pakistan have further facilitated IT exporters, freelancers, and startups by easing financial processes and improving access to foreign exchange.

Experts believe that policy continuity and targeted reforms have contributed to a steady increase in IT exports on a year-on-year basis. The sector is increasingly seen as a vital contributor to Pakistan’s economic stability, offering employment opportunities and strengthening foreign exchange reserves.

With continued investment in skills development and digital infrastructure, Pakistan’s freelance economy is expected to maintain its upward trajectory in the coming years.