Pakistan to Award Freelancers for Earning $1.1 Billion in FY26

Pakistan will recognize its top-performing freelancers for the first time as the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has introduced a dedicated Top Freelancer Award in the PSEB IT Export Awards 2026.

According to PSEB, Pakistani freelancers contributed more than $1.1 billion to the country’s record $4.6 billion in IT and IT-enabled services exports during FY2025-26. The new award aims to recognize their contribution to Pakistan’s growing digital economy and export earnings.

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PSEB has invited all registered freelancers to submit nominations for the award. Eligible applicants must have received export remittances through formal banking channels and possess Proceeds Realisation Certificates (PRCs) under the relevant export codes for the period from July 2025 to June 2026. Applicants must also provide an undertaking confirming the authenticity of the information and supporting documents.

Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin welcomed the initiative, saying it would recognize the contribution of freelancers to the national economy while encouraging more digital professionals to improve their skills, attract international clients, and increase export earnings.

He also urged the government to help successful freelancers transition into startups and support their participation in major international technology exhibitions and business events to showcase Pakistani talent and secure global business opportunities.

Amin noted that Pakistan has nearly three million freelancers, with thousands more students expected to join the country’s digital workforce in the coming months. He said recognizing outstanding freelancers would inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the digital economy.