Pakistani freelancers generated over $500 million in foreign exchange earnings during the first half of the financial year 2025-26, highlighting the growing strength of the country’s digital economy and the expanding global demand for Pakistan’s skilled workforce. The Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) released the statement on Saturday, citing data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
According to Pafla, export receipts earned by freelancers in computer and information services reached $557 million from July to December, compared to $352 million during the same period last year. This represents a significant 58% year-on-year growth, signaling Pakistan’s rising competitiveness in global freelancing services. The milestone reflects the country’s expanding capabilities in areas such as software development, digital marketing, graphic design, content creation, and e-commerce.
The growth is supported by government and private sector initiatives aimed at creating a favorable ecosystem for freelancers and the broader gig economy. Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT), Shaza Fatima Khawaja, highlighted that the government is actively working to facilitate freelancers through improved digital infrastructure, affordable broadband, simplified digital payment mechanisms, and targeted capacity-building programs.
Khawaja emphasized that these efforts aim to ensure Pakistani freelancers can seamlessly access global markets and maximize their earning potential. The government has allowed freelancers to maintain foreign exchange accounts and retain up to 50% of their earnings in US dollars. In addition, freelancers registered with Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) are subject to a minimal tax rate of 0.25%. Policy reforms, public-private partnerships, and support for digital platforms are being aligned to integrate freelancers into the formal economy and increase their contribution to national exports.
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