Gilgit Baltistan is increasingly being recognised as a developing centre for technology in Pakistan, generating an estimated $15 million to $18 million in annual IT revenues, according to a report by Pakistan IT industry association PASHA. The study highlights that around 120 active IT companies in the region account for roughly $3.5 million, while between 3,000 and 4,000 freelancers contribute $10 million to $15 million each year. Despite this growth, experts note that the sector remains modest in scale due to limited access to markets, smaller project sizes, and the early stage of many businesses. Most firms employ fewer than 50 people, and freelancers make up a significant portion of the active tech workforce.
The Gilgit Baltistan IT and IT Enabled Sector Diagnostic Report emphasises that local companies provide services such as software development, web design, and basic IT solutions, often catering to clients in major Pakistani cities or overseas. Revenue levels are constrained by the small size of the domestic market, which is largely supported by agriculture, tourism, and public sector employment. The report highlights that around 68 percent of IT companies are based in Gilgit district, while Skardu, Hunza, and other districts are gradually developing tech communities. Overall, about 300 companies are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, though only 100 to 120 are actively operating, with a total workforce including freelancers estimated at 6,000 to 7,000.
Challenges remain significant for IT firms in the region, with unreliable electricity and limited high speed internet identified as the most pressing issues. Almost 88 percent of companies report disruptions due to power outages, while inconsistent broadband affects daily operations. Access to funding is limited, with few local venture capital options and traditional bank financing largely unavailable. While government support is increasing, it remains at an early stage, with recent budgets allocating funds to IT initiatives. Many companies also face difficulties expanding into larger markets, with 40 percent citing limited marketing reach and 23 percent noting a lack of networking opportunities. High operational costs, shortage of market intelligence, and limited talent further affect growth, alongside regulatory and logistical constraints.
PASHA identifies opportunities to enhance growth, create stronger tech clusters, and develop larger IT enterprises in Gilgit Baltistan. Stakeholders suggest integrating local firms with national and international markets, including participation in trade delegations, subsidised access to global tech expos, and IT export promotion initiatives. A potential IT Special Economic Zone could support further sector development. PASHA Senior Vice Chairman Muhammad Umair Nizam stated that annual revenues could rise to $30 million within the next two years given the region’s potential. The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, together with SIFC and PASHA, is working to connect GB’s IT sector with the national ecosystem, particularly through improvements in power and internet infrastructure. PASHA’s recent CXO Meetup in Gilgit, held in partnership with Gilgit Baltistan Software Houses Association, brought together policymakers, innovators, and tech professionals to discuss growth strategies, while plans for a new PASHA office in the region signal increasing support for the local industry. Local companies and startups are expected to feature at ITCN Asia in Lahore, with a dedicated Made in GB pavilion to highlight their work.
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