Pakistan’s freelancer earnings hit record $1.76 billion in FY26

Pakistan’s freelancers earned a record $1.76 billion in foreign exchange during FY2025-26, up 78% from $984 million in the previous fiscal year, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.

IT freelancers remained the largest contributors, generating more than $1.16 billion during FY26 compared with $779 million a year earlier. This represented growth of 49%, or around $385 million.

Non-IT freelancer earnings recorded faster growth, rising 188% to $592 million from $205 million in FY25, an increase of $387 million.

The figures indicate that freelance exports are expanding beyond software development into creative services, digital marketing, content creation, design, finance, business support and other professional services.

Khurram Schehzad, adviser to the finance minister, said in a post on X that freelancer export earnings had increased more than fourfold over five years, from $396 million in FY21 to $1.76 billion in FY26.

He said the sector was becoming an important source of foreign exchange and helping diversify Pakistan’s exports.

Schehzad said further growth would require investment in digital skills, improved cross-border payment systems, a predictable tax framework, wider broadband access and stronger international promotion of Pakistan’s digital services.

Pakistan Freelancers Association Chairperson Ibrahim Amin said freelancing had become an important part of the economy by generating foreign exchange and contributing to tax revenues.

He said Pakistani freelancers had built an export-oriented industry whose earnings now exceeded those of several traditional sectors.

Industry estimates suggest Pakistan has nearly three million full-time and part-time freelancers, supported by its young population, improved internet connectivity and access to international digital marketplaces.