WEB DESK: Pakistan’s freelance workforce generated more than $950 million in foreign exchange earnings during the first 10 months of fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 49 per cent increase compared to the same period a year earlier, according to figures released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
Strong Growth in Digital Economy
The strong growth highlights the expanding role of freelancers in the country’s digital economy, with industry representatives attributing the surge to greater participation on global online marketplaces and digital service platforms.
Speaking to Dawn, Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) President and Chief Executive Officer Dr Imran Batada said local freelancers had delivered impressive results despite economic uncertainties and increasing competition in international markets. He noted that Pakistani professionals were competing successfully with freelancers from several regional economies, including India, China and the United Arab Emirates.
Growing Presence on Global Platforms
According to Dr Batada, the rise in earnings has been fuelled by the growing presence of Pakistani freelancers on platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr and various social media-based business channels. He said awareness of freelancing as a career option has increased significantly in recent years, encouraging more people to acquire marketable skills through online courses, private training institutes, government-backed programmes and NGO-led initiatives.
Three Million Freelancers
Pakistan’s freelance community is estimated to comprise around three million individuals, making it one of the largest pools of digital workers in the region. Dr Batada emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the government, financial institutions and industry stakeholders to support the sector’s continued growth and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Focus on AI and Soft Skills
He also encouraged students and young professionals to focus on developing advanced technological expertise, particularly in artificial intelligence, alongside communication and other soft skills that are increasingly valued in global markets.
Training Programmes Planned
To further strengthen the sector, PAFLA plans to organise a series of online and in-person training sessions across the country. These programmes will focus on emerging trends in freelancing, business development, client management and payment systems, with the aim of helping Pakistani freelancers expand their reach and increase their earnings in international markets.
Policy Reforms
The government has introduced policy reforms allowing IT exporters, including freelancers, to retain 100% of their foreign earnings and invest abroad without prior SBP approval. Industry stakeholders have urged additional reforms, including extending the 0.25% final tax regime for freelancers until 2035 and introducing a dedicated online tax portal to streamline compliance.
