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KARACHI/ISLAMABAD, June 18, 2026: Pakistani freelancers have made history by earning over $1 billion in foreign exchange during the first eleven months of the current fiscal year. As a result, they have strengthened their role in Pakistan’s economy and expanded the country’s presence in the global freelancing market.
According to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), freelancers in IT and related sectors generated $1.06 billion during the period under review. This compares with $708 million in the same period last year. Consequently, earnings grew by 49.7% year-on-year.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, praised freelancers for their contribution. He said they continue to support the economy through skill, talent, and dedication. Moreover, he stressed that the government recognises their efforts at the national level.
In addition, he highlighted several government measures to support freelancers. The government exempted transactions up to $25,000 from detailed reporting. It also removed individual Form R requirements. Furthermore, it set a one-day processing limit for remittances and allowed freelancers to retain up to 50% of earnings or $5,000 per month in foreign accounts.
He added that the government has launched multiple skill development initiatives. These programs train young professionals in digital and global freelancing skills. As a result, freelancers can better compete on international platforms.
Moreover, the government has established e-Rozgaar hubs and co-working spaces in several cities. It has also introduced AI-based training programs and improved digital payment solutions to address financial challenges.
Rana Mashhood further said the government considers freelancers a key pillar of the economy. Therefore, it continues the 0.25% FTR regime for the next three years to support the sector.
According to estimates, nearly three million freelancers operate in Pakistan, including full-time and part-time workers.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) Chairman Ibrahim Amin called the milestone historic. He said freelancers generated over $1 billion in export earnings in a single fiscal year, outperforming several traditional sectors.
He also welcomed the continuation of the 0.25% FTR. However, he urged the government to reconsider the 5% tax on content creators, especially YouTubers producing educational content.
In addition, he called for reliable high-speed internet and uninterrupted electricity. He said these improvements would further increase freelancer contributions to the economy.
Finally, according to SBP data, non-IT freelancers also contributed $533 million during the same period. Together, total freelancer earnings reached $1.6 billion, including blogging, online teaching, and voice-over services.
