KEY POINTS
- Pakistan’s ICT exports rose 23.7% to $2.83 billion, lifting the trade surplus to $2.43 billion
- Pakistan-based freelancers earned $400 million in foreign exchange
- Over 1,900 startups created 185,000+ jobs and secured Rs 30.8 billion in investments
- Telecom sector earned Rs 803 billion and contributed Rs 271 billion to the exchequer.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s digital economy is surging, powered by a record rise in Pakistan’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) exports and a thriving freelance workforce, according to the Economic Survey 2024–25 released by the Finance Division on Monday.
From July to March FY2025, ICT export receipts jumped 23.7% year-on-year, reaching US$ 2.83 billion, a gain of US$ 541 million over the previous year.
The sector’s trade surplus climbed to US$ 2.43 billion, up from US$ 1.99 billion—a clear sign of the country’s growing competitiveness in global tech markets.
Pakistan’s freelancers are also making waves globally, contributing US$ 400 million in foreign exchange earnings through remittances during the same period.
With increasing digital connectivity and skill development programs, the country is fast becoming a hub for remote tech talent.
To support this momentum, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has established over 50 Software Technology Parks and e-Rozgar Centers nationwide.
These are part of strategic initiatives like the “Establishment of 25 STPs” and the Prime Minister’s Startup Program, aimed at boosting IT entrepreneurship, skills training, and venture funding.
Pakistan’s National Incubation Centers have become the beating heart of its tech startup ecosystem.
By March 2025, they had supported over 1,900 startups, graduating more than 960, creating 185,000+ jobs, attracting Rs 30.8 billion in investment, and generating Rs 27.3 billion in revenue.
Over 12,000 women entrepreneurs have been empowered through these programs—underscoring a shift toward inclusive digital growth.
The telecom sector also showed resilience, generating Rs 803 billion in revenue and reaching 199.9 million total subscriptions with 81.3% teledensity.
Its Rs 271 billion contribution to the national exchequer underscores its economic significance.
With strong export growth and a globally connected freelance workforce, Pakistan’s digital economy is poised for continued expansion—if supported by sustained policy focus, investment in infrastructure, and global market alignment.
