ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s freelance workforce recorded a significant rise in foreign exchange earnings during the first nine months of fiscal year 2025–26, with revenues reaching $856 million, up from $567 million during the same period last year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The increase of $289 million represents a robust 50 per cent growth, underscoring the resilience of the country’s digital workforce despite persistent challenges such as unreliable internet connectivity and widespread electricity load shedding.
Industry observers attribute this upward trend to a steady influx of new entrants into the freelancing sector, supported by skill development initiatives led by public sector institutions and non-governmental organisations.
According to the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), hundreds of thousands of individuals are joining the freelance economy every month, contributing to its rapid expansion.
Pakistan now boasts a freelance workforce exceeding 2.37 million, placing it among the largest globally, as highlighted in recent assessments by the Asian Development Bank.
This growing pool of digital workers continues to tap into international markets, generating valuable foreign exchange for the country. However, stakeholders caution that structural challenges threaten to undermine this progress.
The Pakistan Freelancers Association has called on the government and internet service providers to ensure consistent access to high-speed internet across the country, stressing that connectivity issues are directly impacting productivity and income levels.
PAFLA Chairperson Ibrahim Amin noted that recurring internet slowdowns have hindered freelancers’ ability to deliver projects on time, often affecting their rankings on global platforms and damaging professional reputations.
He added that frequent power outages further compound these difficulties, creating an unpredictable working environment for online professionals.
The disruptions have not been limited to freelancers alone. Workers in the broader gig economy, including ride-hailing drivers and food delivery personnel, are also experiencing reduced earnings due to connectivity issues, highlighting the broader economic impact of infrastructure shortcomings.
The association pointed to recent service disruptions caused by maintenance work on a submarine cable by Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), which led to nationwide internet slowdowns and service degradation.
Such incidents, stakeholders argue, expose the vulnerability of the existing digital infrastructure.
To mitigate these risks, PAFLA has proposed the adoption of satellite-based internet solutions as a more reliable alternative, particularly in areas prone to connectivity issues.
Industry experts also anticipate that the eventual rollout of 5G technology could significantly enhance speed, reliability, and overall productivity for digital workers.
Meanwhile, global demand for freelance services continues to expand, offering Pakistani workers increasing opportunities to earn in foreign currencies.
Experts emphasise the importance of equipping freelancers with advanced skills in emerging fields to remain competitive in the evolving digital marketplace.
In addition, recent regulatory developments allowing commercial banks to facilitate crypto-related accounts may open new avenues for digital earnings.
Analysts suggest that this could encourage more individuals to diversify into online trading alongside freelancing, further boosting foreign exchange inflows.
