Pakistani freelancers generated a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange earnings during fiscal year 2025-26, marking a 78% increase from the previous year and highlighting the country’s growing role in the global digital economy.

According to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), IT freelancers contributed more than $1.16 billion, up 49% year-on-year, while earnings from non-IT freelance services nearly tripled to $592 million, reflecting strong demand for Pakistani professionals across software development, digital marketing, content creation, graphic design and other online services.

Industry estimates suggest Pakistan is now home to nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, making it one of the world’s largest freelancing workforces. Experts say the sector has become a key source of export earnings, helping strengthen foreign exchange reserves while creating employment opportunities for the country’s youth.

The record performance underscores the rapid expansion of Pakistan’s digital economy as freelancers continue to emerge as a major contributor to the country’s IT exports, with industry stakeholders calling for further improvements in digital payment systems, internet infrastructure and skills development to sustain future growth.