Tech Surge: Pakistan’s IT Exports Jump Nearly 20% to Record $3.4 Billion.

Pakistan’s information technology sector maintained strong momentum in FY26, with IT exports rising nearly 20% and freelancer earnings reaching record levels, reinforcing the industry’s growing importance as a key source of foreign exchange.

According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025–26, ICT export remittances increased 19.7% to $3.388 billion during July–March FY26, compared with $2.829 billion in the same period last year.

The sector generated a trade surplus of $2.911 billion, accounting for roughly 86% of total ICT export remittances.

The strong performance comes as Pakistan continues efforts to diversify its export base beyond traditional sectors such as textiles and agriculture.

A major driver of growth was the freelance economy, with Pakistani freelancers earning $856.3 million during July–March FY26, a sharp 51% increase from $567.5 million in the corresponding period of FY25.

Industry observers attribute this growth to rising global demand for digital services, improved internet penetration, expanding remote work opportunities, and greater participation of young professionals in global online marketplaces.

The telecommunications sector also recorded notable expansion. Telecom revenues reached Rs837 billion during July–March FY26, while the sector contributed Rs285 billion to the national exchequer through taxes and duties. Total telecom subscriptions stood at 207.2 million by March 2026, while broadband users reached 161 million, reflecting steady growth in digital connectivity across the country.

A key milestone during the year was Pakistan’s first 5G spectrum auction held in March 2026, which generated approximately $509.6 million (around Rs142.6 billion) through the sale of radio frequency licences.

Officials suggest that the rollout of 5G services could further accelerate the digital economy by enabling high-speed connectivity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence applications, and technology-driven entrepreneurship.

The survey also highlighted progress in digital skills development, noting that DigiSkills training programmes have now delivered over 5.14 million training opportunities, expanding the country’s digital workforce.

Analysts note that the IT sector remains one of the few industries capable of generating substantial export earnings without heavy import dependency, making it particularly important for improving Pakistan’s external account position.

With traditional exports facing intensifying global competition, policymakers increasingly view technology and digital services as a central pillar of future economic growth.

Overall, the data suggests that Pakistan’s digital economy is gradually transitioning from a niche segment into a mainstream export industry with growing contributions to foreign exchange earnings, employment, and economic growth.

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