Pak freelancers’ earnings may reach USD2.5bn in current fiscal year

Pakistani freelancers are on course for export earnings above USD2.5 billion in the current fiscal year, according to Ibrahim Amin, founder and chairman of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA). Amin said the country now ranks fourth among emerging freelancing markets globally. Freelancers earned USD1.76 billion in the previous fiscal year, and USD175 million was booked in July, the opening month of the new year.

The tally of Pakistani freelancers has passed 3 million, and Amin argued that steady policy support could push that figure higher and lift IT services export receipts. He asked the government to exempt active educational YouTube channels from the 5 percent tax or cut their rate to 1 percent. In his view, entertainment and education platforms should not be grouped under one tax category.

A ceremony recognising freelancers' achievements has been arranged at Governor House in Karachi for August 29. Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja is set to be present to encourage and appreciate them.