Pakistani Freelancers achieved a new milestone by earning a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during the fiscal year 2025–26. The latest figures released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) show a significant increase compared to the previous fiscal year.
According to the SBP, Freelancers brought in $1.76 billion during FY26. This marks a 78 percent increase from the $984 million earned in FY25. The strong growth reflects the rising demand for Pakistani freelance services in global markets.
The increase was supported by higher earnings from both IT and non-IT freelance work. These sectors played a major role in boosting Pakistan’s export income during the year.
IT Freelancers contributed more than $1.16 billion in foreign exchange during FY26. In comparison, they generated $779 million in FY25. This represents a 49 percent increase, adding nearly $385 million in export earnings over the previous year.
The non-IT freelance sector also recorded remarkable growth. Export earnings from non-IT freelancers reached $592 million during FY26. A year earlier, the sector had generated $205 million. This shows an impressive 188 percent increase, with an additional $387 million earned during the year.
Industry experts believe this growth highlights the expanding role of freelance professionals in Pakistan’s digital economy. More businesses around the world are hiring skilled workers from Pakistan for technology, creative, marketing, writing, design, and other online services.
Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelance professionals are making an important contribution to the country’s economy. He noted that they are helping increase foreign exchange reserves while also contributing to tax revenues.
Amin said Pakistan’s freelancing sector has developed into one of the country’s strongest export industries. According to him, its earnings now exceed those of several traditional industries.
He added that Pakistani freelancers are improving their personal incomes through their skills and dedication. At the same time, they are helping build a more productive, skilled, and digitally empowered workforce across the country.
Industry estimates suggest Pakistan has nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers. This makes Pakistan the fourth-largest freelancing workforce in the world.
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The latest SBP data highlights the growing importance of the freelancing sector. With continued demand for digital services, Freelancers are expected to remain a key source of export earnings and foreign exchange for Pakistan in the coming years.
