Pakistan’s IT exports cross $2.2 billion mark in 1HFY26, freelancers add momentum

KARACHI: Pakistan’s IT export maintained a steady growth, with receipts crossing $2.2 billion in the first half of the current fiscal year (1HFY26). This is the first time the country’s IT sector has achieved exports of this value during six months, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

During the July-December 2025 period, the IT sector exports surged to $2.23 billion, compared to $1.86 billion registered in the same period last year, reflecting a 19.5% year-on-year growth.

Former Chairman of P@SHA, Mohammad Zohaib Khan, attributed the export growth to the continuity of the government policies, incentives, and enabling programmes for IT companies both domestically and through participation in various trade fairs.

Over the past couple of years, Pakistan’s IT companies and fintech operators have increased their participation in global trade fairs, including GITEX Global, GITEX Europe, LEAP, Singapore Fintech Festival, Money 20/20, as well as various roadshows and conferences across the USA and UK.

According to the SBP’s data, Pakistan’s IT exports registered their highest-ever monthly exports of over $437 million in December 2025, beating the previous record of $386 million recorded in October 2025.

On a yearly basis, IT exports in December grew by 25% or $89 million, as compared to $348 million reported in the same month last year.

Moreover, IT exports posted over 22% growth, compared to $356 million recorded in November 2025.

Dr Noman, an IT exporter, believes that the growth in the IT sector could accelerate further if the government and private sector enhance capacity in emerging technologies, including cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, e-governance and game development.

“In this regard, Pakistan’s IT industry should transform its education system towards investments in IT skills,” said Noman.

“We have a significant population of youth; if we empower them with ethical education and emerging skills, the share of Pakistan’s IT sector will increase substantially in the global market,” he remarked.

Based on the current trajectory, the IT sector exports are expected to hit around $4-4.5 billion.

Moreover, the contribution of freelancers is also projected to surge to around $0.8-1 billion by the end of FY26.

The contribution of freelancers is also significant in the overall exports of the IT sector and economic stability, said Ibrahim Amin, Chairman of Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA).

Through training opportunities, mentoring and an enabling ecosystem, a significant population of youth human resources could be equipped with skills to participate in the digital global workforce, he further said.