IT experts and industry analysts have urged the government and private sector to develop a national roadmap to expand Pakistan’s freelance workforce, improve digital skills and strengthen the country’s position in the global digital economy. They warned that gaps in emerging technologies, communication and business development are preventing freelancers from fully benefiting from international opportunities.
Pakistan has an estimated three million freelancers, with industry experts believing the number could rise to four million within a year if the government introduces a coordinated strategy focused on skills development, digital education and entrepreneurship.
Pakistan’s IT exports reached $435 million in September 2026, the second-highest monthly figure on record. Meanwhile, freelance export receipts totalled nearly $550 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026-27, representing a 46% year-on-year increase.
According to State Bank of Pakistan data, IT-related freelancers earned $333 million during July–September 2026, up from $272 million a year earlier. Non-IT freelancers, including content writers, online teachers, voice-over artists and e-commerce specialists, generated $215 million, marking a 106% increase compared with the same period last year.
Pakistan Freelancers Association Chairman Ibrahim Amin stressed the need for collaboration between the government and private sector to equip freelancers with in-demand technical and soft skills. He said freelancing could create valuable income opportunities for young people amid limited employment prospects in traditional industries.
Freelancing coach Dr Noman Ahmed Said also called for technology-focused education from the school level, emphasising digital literacy, technical expertise and business development skills to prepare young people for changes in the global labour market.
Industry stakeholders believe Pakistan needs a comprehensive national strategy that not only increases the number of freelancers but also improves their productivity, access to training and ability to secure higher-value international assignments.
