ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) exports showed remarkable growth, rising by $541 million to reach $2.82 billion during July to March, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 released recently.
This surge has resulted in a trade surplus of $2.42 billion in the sector.
Freelancers contributed $400 million to these ICT export earnings, highlighting the growing importance of individual digital entrepreneurs.
The survey underlined that Pakistan’s tech-savvy and professional youth are poised to become a leading regional hub for digital services, tech startups, and high-value software exports.
Building IT Capacity and Skills
In the first nine months of fiscal year 2025, Pakistan made significant progress in strengthening its IT human capital and industry capacity.
A total of 6,400 professionals were trained in advanced technologies, with an additional 3,400 currently undergoing certification.
More than 2,700 interns secured placements in IT firms, with an impressive 70 percent retention rate.
Thousands of young professionals also benefited from soft skills and technical boot camps, enhancing their readiness for the tech industry.
Collaboration between industry and academia facilitated training for over 1,600 graduates and skill assessments for 9,300 students, further expanding the talent pipeline.
Infrastructure and Institutional Support
The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) manages over 50 Software Technology Parks (STPs) and e-Rozgar centres across the country.
Among ongoing initiatives is the establishment of 25 new Software Technology Parks aimed at nurturing innovation and supporting startups.
These developments provide critical infrastructure and resources to sustain the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy.
With continued investment in skill development and infrastructure, Pakistan is set to solidify its position as a regional leader in IT exports and digital services.
