As of 2025, Pakistan is home to over three million freelancers, and the number continues to grow with each passing day. These individuals are at the heart of the country’s rapidly expanding digital economy, offering a wide range of services such as software development, web and app development, content creation, data analytics, virtual assistance, product research and professional writing.
FREELANCE ECONOMY
As of 2025, Pakistan is home to over three million freelancers, and the number continues to grow with each passing day. These individuals are at the heart of the country’s rapidly expanding digital economy, offering a wide range of services such as software development, web and app development, content creation, data analytics, virtual assistance, product research and professional writing.
Pakistan’s freelancers are not only showcasing their skills to international clients but are also contributing significantly to the economy, with an estimated contribution of $400 million to $500 million annually to the national GDP. This thriving sector holds immense potential, but the lack of formal recognition and tracking is a major drawback when it comes to national planning and digital policymaking processes.
To tap into the full potential of the freelancing economy, there is an urgent need for a National Freelancers Database. Such a database would help identify, verify, and track freelancers across the country. It would also offer valuable insights into their strengths, challenges, training needs and overall economic impact. More importantly, it would give freelancers visibility and a formal identity within the national economy, opening doors to numerous benefits that are currently only available to traditional employees. This includes financial inclusion, access to government-backed training, and better integration into global digital ecosystems.
A National Freelancers Database would be a foundational step towards unlocking the full potential of Pakistan’s freelance workforce. By registering their skills and sectors of expertise, freelancers would provide policymakers with critical data to develop customised training programmes, targeted certifications and digital infrastructure investments.
This structured approach would not only support freelancers but also enhance the government’s ability to make data-driven decisions. With verified credentials, freelancers could enjoy tax incentives, improved banking services, easier access to loans and lower-cost digital payment solutions. They would also become part of the formal economy, enjoying better protection and opportunities.
Recognition also brings motivation. Highlighting top freelancers through national events and connecting them with global freelancing platforms can boost their visibility and credibility. This sense of belonging and appreciation can uplift the entire community. An organised and trustworthy database would also serve as a magnet for international outsourcing and digital contracts from multinational companies, positioning Pakistan as a reliable global hub for digital talent. The ripple effect of such visibility would result in increased earnings, foreign exchange inflow and the creation of new digital jobs.
One potential concern is how to encourage freelancers to voluntarily register in the database. This can be addressed by offering relevant incentives such as subsidised or free access to premium digital tools
The database would also streamline access to professional and financial resources. Freelancers would be easily matched with jobs relevant to their specific skill sets. They could also be empowered through updated training programs, mentorship and collaborative initiatives. As digital entrepreneurship becomes more mainstream, embracing freelancers as core contributors would diversify the economy, reducing dependency on traditional industries. A centralised digital system would also help connect freelancers with potential clients both locally and globally, leading to more sustainable and long-term engagement.
The database would also foster a sense of community among freelancers, offering avenues for networking, collaboration, and shared learning. It could address long-standing issues such as lack of contractual protection, absence of social security benefits and vulnerability to non-payment or client exploitation, challenges often faced by freelancers working without formal agreements. This formal recognition would allow freelancers to access legal and financial safeguards similar to those of full-time employees.
To further support the freelancing ecosystem, Pakistan must also focus on improving internet penetration and digital connectivity, especially in underserved areas. Strengthening digital infrastructure will enable more people to participate in remote work and benefit from global freelancing opportunities.
Freelancers will continue to rely on international platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer and Guru, providing services to clients across the world and earning in foreign currencies. However, a significant challenge remains in international payments. Pakistan’s exclusion from popular payment gateways such as PayPal limits options and increases transaction costs. A recognised freelance sector could strengthen the government’s position in negotiating better international financial access for its digital workforce.
One potential concern is how to encourage freelancers to voluntarily register in the database. This can be addressed by offering relevant incentives such as subsidised or free access to premium digital tools, design software, grammar checkers, video editing platforms and coding environments. Freelancers should also be made aware that their registration opens doors to exclusive training programmes, certifications, fast remittance services and financial solutions tailored to their needs. In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, upskilling is essential and such programmes would help freelancers stay competitive and relevant.
Ultimately, the National Freelancers Database would become a cornerstone in developing a resilient and inclusive digital economy. It would ensure that freelancers are equipped with the right skills, connected with relevant opportunities, and included in financial systems. It would also enable safer transactions, protection against scams and enhanced trust in digital services.
Recognizing freelancers as vital contributors will not only boost morale but also foster growth in the sector. As freelancers feel more secure, supported and visible, Pakistan’s digital economy will flourish. This initiative will mark a significant step towards establishing Pakistan as a global leader in the digital talent economy.
The writer is the author of ‘Digital Pakistan’ and holds the position of chief digital officer and director at the Centre for Information and Communication
