Pakistan’s freelancers generated $352 million in export earnings during the first two months of fiscal year 2026-27, up 44 percent from $244 million during the same period last year, according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan.
Freelancers providing IT-related services earned $212 million during July and August 2026, while those providing non-IT services generated $139 million.
Chairman Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Ibrahim Amin told said that Pakistani freelancers were strengthening their presence on international freelancing platforms, contributing to the increase in export receipts brought into the country.
He said Pakistani freelancers were quick to acquire in-demand skills, particularly in artificial intelligence tools and applications. Many freelancers are also working in teams and providing multiple services through agencies registered on international platforms, he added.
Amin credited government, private sector and nongovernmental organizations for conducting IT and skills development courses in different cities to equip young people with market-oriented skills alongside their academic qualifications.
He said freelancers were expected to further increase their contribution to the national economy and expressed optimism that their overall earnings could reach $2.5 billion by the end of the current financial year. According to PAFLA estimates, Pakistan has nearly 3 million freelancers providing various digital and online services.
