Pakistan’s freelancers bring in $549mn in 1QFY27

October 27, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan’s freelancers brought in $549mn in foreign exchange during the first quarter (July-September) of FY27, a rise of 45% from $377.3mn in the same period last year.

The year-on-year increase works out to around $172mn, data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) showed.

Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), said the growing export receipts of recent years reflect the rising contribution of digital workers and the expanding size of the freelance workforce.

Dr Noman Ahmed Said, a freelancing coach, and the CEO of Si Global also shared their views on the sector’s outlook, according to a press release issued.

IT freelancers remain the larger contributor to export receipts, but the non-IT segment is growing at a much faster pace. This segment covers content writers, voice-over artists, online teachers, e-commerce specialists and other digital service providers.

Ibrahim Amin said the gig economy is expanding worldwide, but Pakistani freelancers are not making full use of the opportunities on offer because of gaps in emerging technology skills, communication and business development.

He called on the government and the private sector to work together and prioritise training in in-demand technical and soft skills.

He added that jobs in the formal industrial sector are limited, which makes freelancing a key alternative for young people looking for a sustainable income.

With consistency, dedication and professionalism, he said, the youth can tap global markets through international freelancing platforms and earn foreign exchange.

Pakistan has an estimated three million freelancers, among the largest freelance communities in the world. Industry stakeholders say a comprehensive strategy is needed to grow this workforce and strengthen its competitiveness in the global digital economy.

Dr Noman Ahmed said freelancers must keep upgrading their skills to keep pace with fast-moving technological change, which is reshaping global markets and creating uncertainty for businesses and independent professionals.

He urged the government to introduce technology-focused education from school level so the next generation gains digital literacy, technical expertise and business development skills.

The CEO of Si Global said the freelance workforce could grow from three million to four million within a year if the government develops a national roadmap and pursues long-term collaboration with the private sector to promote freelancing, skills development and digital entrepreneurship.

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