Pakistan freelancers’ earnings surge 45% YoY in July
Export receipts generated through freelance services rose to $175.439 million in July 2026, compared with $120.556 million in the same month of 2025, registering an increase of $54.883 million, or around 45.5%, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). Freelancers’ earnings from IT services increased to $106.778 million in July 2026, while non-IT services generated $68.661…
In July 2026, Pakistani freelancers experienced a significant boost in their earnings, with export receipts from freelance services surging by 45% year-over-year, reaching $175.439 million. This marked a substantial increase of $54.883 million, or around 45.5%, compared to the same period in 2025, when earnings amounted to $120.556 million.
IT services contributed $106.778 million to the freelancers' revenue, while non-IT services contributed $68.661 million. In comparison to July 2025, IT services earnings rose from $89.872 million to $106.778 million, while non-IT services increased from $30.684 million to $68.661 million.
Ibrahim Amin, Chairman and Founder of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), highlighted the crucial role freelancers play in supporting Pakistan's economy and enhancing macroeconomic indicators. He emphasized that freelancers have contributed substantially to foreign exchange earnings, despite facing various challenges. Amin also revealed that approximately 3 million Pakistani freelancers generated $1.7 billion in foreign exchange during the financial year 2025-26, highlighting their talent, commitment, and growing impact on the country's digital economy.
It is estimated that there are around 3 million full-time and part-time freelancers in Pakistan, positioning the nation as the fourth-largest freelancer community globally.
To acknowledge the achievements and contributions of Pakistani freelancers, PAFLA plans to host a national recognition ceremony on August 29 at Governor House Sindh. Governor Sindh Nehal Hashmi will be the chief guest, while Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima will serve as the guest of honor.
The ceremony will recognize freelancers' performance, professional accomplishments, and their role in generating foreign exchange for the country. A dedicated category will be introduced to honor the accomplishments of female freelancers. Dr. Imran Batada, President and CEO of PAFLA, described freelancers as "unsung heroes" who have made significant contributions to Pakistan's economy through their dedication, hard work, and resilience.
He emphasized that the PAFLA Freelancers Awards initiative aims to bring the rapidly expanding digital workforce together on a national platform, showcasing the opportunities available in the global gig economy. Dr. Batada believes that recognizing freelancers will not only honor their achievements but also inspire students and young professionals to pursue high-demand skills and consider freelancing as a viable and sustainable career path.
Written by urgent.news from Business Recorder's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
