Business Desk 
Nov 20, 2025
An undated image. — Canva
In a move that testifies to Pakistan's consistently thriving freelance sector, Pakistan has been named among the top three freelance nations globally, having nearly 3 million freelancers.
In the current fiscal year, Pakistan recorded $4 million in freelance-related financial inflows, primarily from urban centres like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, which are key drivers of the country's digital export growth.
The data was provided by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which indicated Pakistan's 3 million freelancers account for 12.5% of the global freelance market.
The development comes as a landmark achievement in the country's expanding digital presence and its vital role in the international gig economy.
What challenges Pakistan's freelance sector is facing?
Despite the globally recognised growth, Pakistan's freelance sector is still faced with serious challenges hindering freelancers' potential, their earnings and long-term competitiveness.
The PTA data revealed that 23% of freelancers are engaged in low-paid work, such as basic data entry, which is most likely to be replaced with AI automation.
On average, Pakistani freelancers earn $4 per hour, starkly lower than the global average of $28. This disparity is attributed to limited access to advanced training and a lack of participation in high-value segments like AI and cloud engineering.
The freelance workforce also exhibits a significant gender gap, with women comprising only 21% of freelancers. Barriers such as limited digital access, fewer training opportunities, and cultural constraints contribute to this imbalance.
To make the most of freelance potential, Pakistan needs to improve payment systems, expand technical training, and enhance digital infrastructure.
