KARACHI – Pakistani freelancers have generated $557 million in foreign exchange between July and December 2025, reflecting a 58% year-on-year increase. This surge highlights Pakistan’s growing prominence as a leading hub for the global gig economy.
According to industry sources, over 2.37 million freelancers in Pakistan are actively providing services such as software development, cloud infrastructure, AI training, and graphic design. Cities like Lahore, Karachi, Multan, and Peshawar are emerging as centers of digital talent, offering work that competes with global markets like Silicon Valley and Bangalore.
Experts say the rise of freelancers is supported by recent government initiatives. The State Bank of Pakistan now allows freelancers to retain 50% of their earnings in US dollars. In addition, a 0.25% withholding tax rate for IT professionals registered with the Pakistan Software Export Board incentivizes formal economic participation. These policies have helped freelancers operate legally and securely while encouraging reinvestment within the country.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has further facilitated freelancers through programs such as DigiSkills, which trains youth in high-demand areas like AI, cybersecurity, and software development. Simplified payment gateways and blockchain-enabled platforms, like Fasset, have also made it easier for freelancers to receive international payments.
Freelancers contribute not just to national foreign exchange but also to local economic growth. Earnings from global clients are spent on groceries, bills, real estate, and community development, helping mitigate brain drain and decentralize wealth across Pakistan.
IT exports continue to benefit from this momentum. In the first seven months of FY26, Pakistan’s IT exports exceeded $2.61 billion, with January 2026 alone contributing $374 million. Analysts predict freelance earnings could surpass $1 billion by the end of FY26, pushing overall IT exports to $4.5 billion.
Government projections under the Uraan Pakistan initiative aim for $10 billion in IT exports by FY29. Achieving this goal will require continued broadband expansion, advanced training, and policies that support freelancers.
In other news read more about Pakistani Freelancers Earn Over $500M in First Half of FY2025-26
Pakistani freelancers are no longer just participants in the global gig economy; they are emerging as leaders, proving that the country’s digital workforce is a vital driver of economic growth.
