Pakistan’s information technology (IT) and telecommunications sectors demonstrated notable resilience and growth during the fiscal year 2024–25, according to the government’s Economic Survey released Monday.
The report highlighted that IT exports surged to $2.825 billion, underscoring the sector’s expanding role in the national economy despite global headwinds. Freelancers significantly contributed with $400 million in remittances, providing an additional boost.
The telecommunications sector generated revenues of Rs803 billion, further cementing its substantial economic contribution. Internet adoption continued to rise, with broadband subscribers reaching 147.2 million and the total telecom subscriber base growing to 199.9 million.
Looking ahead, Pakistan has set ambitious trade and economic objectives under the Annual Development Plan for FY 2025-26. The government aims to increase exports, optimize imports, and maintain a sustainable current account deficit, according to official sources.
Trade and Fiscal Targets
The upcoming fiscal year targets total exports of goods and services at $44.9 billion, including $35.3 billion from goods and $9.6 billion from services. Imports are projected to reach $79.2 billion, with goods imports at $65.2 billion and services imports at $14 billion, reflecting a significant trade imbalance.
Remittances and Current Account Outlook
Workers’ remittances, a vital source of economic stability, are forecasted at $39.4 billion for FY 2025-26. To ease external financial pressures, the government plans to cap the current account deficit at 0.5% of GDP, approximately $2.1 billion.
Budget Proposals
The federal government is preparing to present a Rs17,600 billion budget to parliament. Revenue collection is estimated at Rs19,400 billion, with the Federal Board of Revenue assigned a tax collection target of Rs14,130 billion.
