KARACHI: Pakistani freelancers have created history by generating a record-breaking $1.76 billion in foreign exchange earnings during the fiscal year 2025-26, marking a monumental 78% growth compared to the $984 million recorded in the previous fiscal year. According to Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), citing State Bank of Pakistan data for the year ending June 30, this historic milestone was achieved entirely through the sheer dedication and independent hard work of the freelance community without relying on government support.
This massive surge in freelance export earnings has significantly strengthened Pakistan’s macroeconomic indicators and shored up vital foreign reserves. Beyond bringing in valuable foreign currency, the IT and freelance community is actively contributing to the national exchequer through tax compliance. Consequently, Pakistan’s freelance sector has officially transitioned from a gig-economy subset into a vital economic pillar, outperforming several traditional export industries and emerging as a primary driver of the nation’s digital growth.