ISLAMABAD, Tuesday, July 28, 2026: Pakistan’s information technology and ICT exports surged by 21% to a record $4.6 billion in fiscal year 2025-26, marking a major milestone for the country’s expanding digital economy, according to official figures.
The IT sector also generated a $3.9 billion trade surplus, described as the highest ever recorded by Pakistan’s services industry.
Freelancer remittances showed particularly strong growth, rising by 78% to $1.76 billion during FY2025-26. The increase reflected growing demand for Pakistani digital professionals in software development, information technology services, artificial intelligence and other online sectors.
Officials attributed the sector’s performance to measures including digital skills programmes, tax incentives, foreign currency account facilities and expanded professional training.
The Special Investment Facilitation Council has also supported efforts to attract investment, improve the business environment and strengthen Pakistan’s competitiveness in technology and digital services.
Pakistan Expands Artificial Intelligence Investment
The government has introduced the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025 as part of its broader strategy to promote AI research, innovation and commercial adoption.
Under the policy framework, the government plans to allocate $1 billion by 2030 for artificial intelligence research and sovereign computing infrastructure.
The investment is expected to support local AI development, advanced computing capacity, skills training and research projects while reducing dependence on foreign digital infrastructure.
AI Research Centres Gain Momentum
The Sino-Pak Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Haripur and the National Centre of Artificial Intelligence at the National University of Sciences and Technology are among the institutions working to expand education, research and technology development in the field.
These centres are expected to contribute to the development of AI professionals, support industry-led research and help Pakistani companies adopt emerging technologies.
The latest export figures strengthen Pakistan’s position as a growing supplier of technology services to global markets. However, sustaining the momentum will depend on reliable internet connectivity, skilled workforce development, regulatory stability and continued investment in digital infrastructure.
With IT exports, freelancer earnings and AI investment rising, Pakistan is seeking a larger role in the global digital economy while using technology to support employment, productivity and long-term economic growth.
Also Read: Pakistan’s IT Exports Hit Record $4.5 Billion
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