Pakistan IT exports surge nearly 20% to $2.61bn in July–January

IT exports maintained steady double-digit growth in Pakistan, with total receipts rising to $2.61 billion during July–January FY2025–26, up from $2.17 billion recorded in the corresponding period of the previous financial year, showing a 19% year-on-year growth or $431 million overall increase in values, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The increase in export receipts was driven by higher foreign earnings from IT companies, remote professionals, and freelancers providing services to international clients across various markets.

Dr Noman Said, an IT exporter and CEO SI Global Solutions, said the IT sector had the potential to take the country’s services exports to the next level and help turn the current account deficit into a surplus.

Also read: Pakistan’s IT exports rise to $691m in July–August

He said emerging technologies under artificial intelligence had provided Pakistan with an opportunity to claim a notable position among countries worldwide through its IT services, solutions, and products.

“We must provide quality training to the younger generation and equip them with skills in emerging technologies, both in software and hardware systems,” he said, adding that would not only produce human resources for the local market but also enable qualified professionals to serve international markets.

In December 2025, IT exports rose to $437 million compared to $348 million —the highest-ever monthly exports for the IT sector. However, the export receipts stood at $374 million In January.

Over the past few years, Pakistan’s IT companies and fintech operators have actively participated in global exhibitions and conferences, including GITEX Global, GITEX Europe, LEAP, the Singapore FinTech Festival, Money20/20, and various roadshows and conferences in cities across the US and the UK.

In this regard, the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT) has also been providing financial assistance to IT companies, fintech operators, and emerging startups.

Mehwish Salman Ali, a member of the P@SHA AI Committee, said the growth in IT exports was driven by the increasing penetration of Pakistani companies into both traditional and emerging markets, particularly in the Gulf region.

Also read: Pakistan plans export push to tackle potato surplus

She suggested that Pakistani companies should target high-value clients through joint ventures and partnerships in the US, European, and Gulf markets to attract higher returns and investment.

In 2025, Pakistan explored new opportunities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with several IT companies establishing subsidiaries and offshore offices due to facilitation by both brotherly countries and enhanced bilateral strategic and defence ties.

The IT sector is the leading contributor to services exports and ranks second in overall exports after the textile sector. Last year, IT sector recorded exports of $3.8 billion, surpassing the rice sector, which posted exports of $3.6 billion.