Pakistani Freelancers Earn Record $1.76 Billion in FY26

Pakistani freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during fiscal year 2025–26, reflecting a 78 percent increase from $984 million in the previous fiscal year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The sharp rise was driven by strong growth in both IT and non IT freelance exports.

IT freelancers generated more than $1.16 billion during FY26, up from $779 million in FY25. This represents an increase of 49 percent, or approximately $385 million, over the previous year.

Meanwhile, export earnings from non IT freelancers nearly tripled, rising to $592 million from $205 million a year earlier. The segment recorded an impressive 188 percent increase, 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 Pakistan’s 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, Pakistan is home to nearly three million full time and part time freelancers, making it the fourth largest freelancing workforce in the world.