Pakistan’s information technology (IT) and tech-related exports surged to $435 million in September 2026, marking the second-highest monthly figure on record. According to data shared by Khurram Schehzad, Adviser to the Finance Minister, the impressive figure represents an 18 per cent year-on-year increase and a 10 per cent month-on-month growth.
The September export total was just $2 million shy of the country’s all-time monthly high of $437 million, which was recorded in December 2025. Cumulatively, Pakistan’s IT exports for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2026-27 (July to September) stood at a robust $1.25 billion, reflecting sustained momentum in the tech sector.
Schehzad attributed this upward trajectory to targeted policy interventions and incentives introduced in the federal budget for FY27. These measures were specifically designed to support exporters and the IT sector, effectively expanding the footprint of Pakistan’s digital economy.
“These developments are actively supporting export growth, generating crucial non-debt foreign exchange earnings, creating high-value employment opportunities, and strengthening Pakistan’s integration with global markets,” Schehzad noted in a social media update.
Also Read: Tesla Unveils Thruster-Equipped Roadster, Targets 2028 Production
The Rise of the Freelance Economy
A significant driver behind the IT export surge has been the remarkable performance of Pakistan’s independent digital workforce. During September 2026, freelancers generated a record-breaking $197 million in export earnings—the highest monthly level ever recorded for the segment.
This marks a massive 49 per cent year-on-year jump and an 11 per cent increase from the previous month. For the first quarter of FY27, freelancer exports totalled approximately $550 million, a 46 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year.
“Pakistan’s growing freelance economy is increasingly translating its young digital talent into exports, non-debt foreign exchange earnings, high-value opportunities, and greater integration with global markets,” Schehzad emphasized.
Broader Economic Momentum
The positive trend extends beyond the digital realm. In a separate update, the finance adviser revealed that Pakistan’s overall goods exports exceeded the $3 billion mark in September 2026, reaching their highest monthly level in 20 months.
The dual growth in both technology-related services and traditional merchandise exports indicates a stabilizing external account, with digital services continuing to play a vital, growing role in bolstering Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves without adding to the national debt burden.