Pakistan’s IT and IT-enabled services exports continued their strong run, with industry watchers projecting growth of nearly 20 per cent for the fiscal year. The sector is helping offset weakness in goods exports.
Official data showed IT exports rose 18.3 per cent to $691.7 million in the first two months of the previous fiscal year. Freelancers and software firms led the growth.
Why IT matters
IT exports bring in valuable foreign exchange without needing imported raw materials. The country’s digital economy is valued at over $36 billion, and more than 30,000 new software engineers join the workforce each year, according to industry reports.
Government officials said they are working on tax breaks and better internet infrastructure to support the sector.
Room to grow
Analysts believe Pakistan’s IT exports could grow much faster with the right policies. They pointed to strong demand for software, AI and outsourcing services in Western markets.
Industry leaders want the government to keep IT exports tax-free and cut internet costs. They say better policies could help Pakistan reach $10 billion in IT exports within a few years.
Freelancers are a big part of the story. Thousands of young Pakistanis earn dollars through online platforms, working on design, coding and marketing projects for foreign clients.
Training programmes are expanding to meet demand. Universities and private institutes are adding courses in AI, cloud computing and cybersecurity to prepare students for global jobs.
Remote work has opened new doors for Pakistani talent. Many developers now earn in dollars while living at home, which boosts both incomes and foreign reserves.
Comments (0)
Be respectful — comments are moderated.