Pakistan’s IT exports reached an all-time high of $3.8 billion in the financial year 2024-25, marking an 18% increase from $3.2 billion the previous year, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The IT and IT-enabled services sector is now the third-largest foreign exchange earner after textiles and rice, accounting for 45% of total services exports.
Industry leaders praised the sector’s strong performance, noting its contribution to stabilizing the current account amid global challenges. Muhammad Umair Nizam of P@SHA highlighted ongoing collaboration between the government and industry to further boost IT exports despite hurdles like delayed policy implementations.
Government initiatives supporting exporters include allowing IT firms to retain 50% of earnings in forex accounts, introducing cash rewards for top performers, and addressing tax reporting challenges, which have encouraged greater investment and innovation.
Experts see substantial growth potential, with Mehwish Salman Ali emphasizing the adoption of AI, cybersecurity, and the need for skilled talent and global partnerships. Khushnood Aftab of FPCCI urged diversification into hardware exports such as laptops and devices.
The government has set ambitious goals under the Uraan Pakistan vision, aiming to reach $5 billion in IT exports by FY26 and $10 billion by FY29, reflecting growing confidence in the sector’s role in Pakistan’s economic development.
