Pakistan is making remarkable progress in its digital economy. The Economic Survey 2024-25 confirmed a strong performance by the country’s IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) sector. Between July and March (9MFY25), IT export receipts increased by $541 million, reaching $2.82 billion. This growth created a significant trade surplus of $2.42 billion.
Freelancers and Digital Youth Driving Growth
Pakistani freelancers contributed $400 million to ICT exports. This reflects the growing strength of the country’s tech-savvy youth in delivering digital services to global clients.
The survey highlighted that Pakistan’s professional youth are leading the way in digital services, software exports, and tech startups. With global demand for these services rising, Pakistan is in a strong position to capture new opportunities.
Strengthening IT Human Capital and Industry Capacity
The government continues to invest in developing IT talent and industry capacity. In FY25 alone, over 6,400 professionals received training in advanced technologies. Certification programs for another 3,400 professionals are in progress.
More than 2,700 interns joined IT firms this year, and 70% secured permanent roles — a promising sign for sustainable job creation. Thousands more participated in technical boot camps and soft skills workshops, preparing them for modern digital careers.
Industry-Academia Collaboration Boosting Innovation
Pakistan’s IT ecosystem is growing stronger through effective partnerships between industry and academia. This year, over 1,600 graduates completed joint training programs. Additionally, 9,300 students took part in skill assessments to improve their job-market readiness.
The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) is driving much of this progress. It currently oversees more than 50 Software Technology Parks (STPs) and e-Rozgar centres across the country. The government also plans to build 25 new technology parks, offering advanced digital infrastructure for startups, freelancers, and IT companies.
Conclusion
With IT exports rising, a skilled digital workforce emerging, and infrastructure expanding, Pakistan is firmly on the path to becoming a regional IT hub. The focus on public-private partnerships and human capital development promises even greater progress in the years ahead.
As global demand for digital services continues to grow, Pakistan’s digital economy is well-prepared to compete and thrive in both regional and international markets.