Pakistan’s freelancers earned $549 million in foreign exchange during the first quarter of FY27, marking a 45% increase from $377.3 million recorded in the same period last year, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.
The sector generated approximately $172 million in additional export earnings during July–September. IT-related freelancers contributed $333 million, up from $272 million a year earlier, while non-IT freelancers recorded a 106% increase to $215 million from $104 million.
Ibrahim Amin, chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), said the growth reflects the expanding freelance workforce and its contribution to Pakistan’s digital economy. However, he noted that freelancers need stronger technical skills, communication abilities and business development expertise to benefit from more international opportunities.
Amin urged the government and private sector to introduce training programmes focused on in-demand technologies and professional skills. He also highlighted the importance of freelancing for young Pakistanis amid limited employment opportunities in the formal industrial sector.
Meanwhile, freelancing coach and Si Global Chief Executive Dr. Noman Ahmed Said stressed the need for continuous skills development as technological changes reshape global markets. He called for technology-focused education from school level to help students develop digital literacy, technical expertise and entrepreneurship skills.
Pakistan has an estimated three million freelancers. Dr. Noman Ahmed Said believes the number could reach four million within a year if the government develops a national roadmap and works with the private sector to promote digital skills and freelancing opportunities.