Pakistani freelancers brought in a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during fiscal year 2025–26, a 78 percent surge from $984 million in the previous year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The sharp rise was fueled by strong growth across both IT and non-IT freelance exports.
IT freelancers generated more than $1.16 billion during FY26, up from $779 million in FY25 — an increase of 49 percent, or roughly $385 million, over the previous year.
Non-IT freelancers posted even more dramatic gains, with export earnings nearly tripling to $592 million from $205 million a year earlier. The segment recorded a 188 percent jump, adding around $387 million in export earnings.
Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelancers are playing an increasingly important role in strengthening the country’s economy by bringing in foreign exchange and contributing to tax revenues.
He said the freelancing industry has rapidly grown into one of the country’s leading export sectors, with earnings now exceeding those of several traditional industries.
“Pakistani freelancers are not only improving their own livelihoods through talent and hard work, but are also contributing to the development of a more productive, skilled and digitally empowered workforce,” Amin said.
According to industry estimates, the country is home to nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, making it the fourth largest freelancing workforce in the world.
