LAHORE – Pakistan’s freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 78 per cent increase compared to $984 million recorded in FY25, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The latest figures underline the growing role of Pakistan’s freelance workforce in strengthening the country’s digital economy and increasing export earnings through global online platforms.
IT Freelancers Lead Export Growth
According to the SBP data, IT freelancers generated more than $1.16bn during FY26, compared with $779m in the previous fiscal year. The increase of 49pc, equivalent to $385m, highlights continued demand for Pakistani software developers, programmers, designers and other technology professionals in international markets.
Meanwhile, non-IT freelancers recorded even stronger growth. Their export earnings climbed to $592m during FY26 from $205m in FY25, reflecting a 188pc increase, or $387m, over the period.
Freelancers Strengthening Pakistan’s Economy
Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelancers continue to make a significant contribution to Pakistan’s economy by bringing valuable foreign exchange into the country while supporting tax revenues.
He said Pakistan’s freelancing community has rapidly become one of the country’s strongest export sectors, surpassing several traditional industries within a relatively short period. According to Amin, Pakistani freelancers are improving their livelihoods while helping create a more productive, skilled and digitally empowered workforce.
Pakistan Among World’s Largest Freelancing Markets
Industry estimates suggest Pakistan is home to nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, making it the fourth-largest freelancing workforce globally.
PAFLA President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Imran Batada said expanding digital skills programmes is essential to prepare young Pakistanis for opportunities on international freelancing and digital platforms. He said wider access to digital education would help reduce unemployment, alleviate poverty and further increase export earnings.
Focus on AI and Digital Skills
Dr Batada said PAFLA plans to expand its free digital skills training programmes over the coming year, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. He encouraged freelancers to move beyond project-based work by establishing startups or registered companies while continuously upgrading their skills in emerging technologies.
Dr Batada also welcomed the government’s support for the freelancing industry through favourable tax policies and skills development initiatives, saying these measures would further accelerate the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy
Key Points:
- Pakistani freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in FY26, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.
- Freelance earnings increased 78% from $984 million in FY25.
- IT freelancers generated over $1.16 billion, up 49% year-on-year.
- Non-IT freelancers contributed $592 million, recording a 188% increase.
- Pakistan is estimated to have nearly three million freelancers, making it the world’s fourth-largest freelancing workforce.
- Industry leaders called for greater investment in AI, data analytics and digital skills training to sustain growth.
