Pakistan ranks 4th in global freelancing

Pakistan ranks as the fourth largest freelancing nation globally, with the United States holding the top spot, according to Tufail Ahmed, CEO and President of the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PALFA), in an exclusive conversation with Nukta.

Approximately 2.37 million Pakistanis offer services as freelancers to clients worldwide at the moment, with this number steadily increasing daily. Notably, only 20,000 of these freelancers are registered with the Pakistan Software Export Board.

In fiscal year 2023-24, Pakistani freelancers contributed nearly $500 million to the country's $3 billion IT exports. As the number of freelancers grows, this figure is expected to rise.

Despite their significant contributions, Pakistani freelancers face numerous challenges, including sluggish internet speeds and VPN issues. Ahmed revealed that PALFA is collaborating with government authorities to address these concerns, emphasizing that resolving these issues is crucial not only for freelancers but also for the country's IT export sector.

In a positive development, the government has introduced a white VPN policy for freelancers and IT service providers nationwide. PALFA is closely monitoring the implementation and outcomes of this policy, with a focus on its potential benefits for the sector.

Furthermore, for mobile data users, the authorities have introduced a mobile number verification method for VPNs, aimed at streamlining the process.

In a testament to the growing success of Pakistani freelancers, a leading international firm has recently awarded over six Pakistani freelancers for earning more than $1 million. This achievement highlights the immense potential and talent of Pakistani freelancers in the global market.