Pakistan’s information and communication technology sector posted a 19.7 percent year-on-year increase in export remittances during fiscal year 2025-26, pushing the trade surplus in the sector to 2.91 billion dollars.
Growth Momentum Continues
According to the Pakistan Economic Survey, the technology sector maintained its growth momentum throughout the fiscal year, building on gains recorded in previous years despite broader economic headwinds. The 19.7 percent jump in ICT export remittances marks one of the strongest performances among Pakistan’s export-oriented industries during the period.
Rising Number of Registered IT Firms
The number of IT and IT-enabled services companies registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan increased significantly over the fiscal year, reflecting growing investor and entrepreneurial interest in the sector. The industry’s export base now spans technology companies, digital agencies, e-commerce sellers and software-as-a-service exporters serving clients around the world.
Cross-Border Payments Seen as Key Enabler
Industry figures say sustaining the sector’s momentum will depend heavily on financial infrastructure that keeps pace with exporters’ needs. Nagesh Devata, senior vice president and head of Asia-Pacific at global payments firm Payoneer, said international growth also requires financial infrastructure that can move at the speed of businesses, underscoring the importance of fast, reliable cross-border payment systems for freelancers and technology firms alike.
A Bright Spot Amid Broader Economic Pressure
The ICT sector’s strong showing comes even as Pakistan grapples with rising inflation and stock market volatility driven by regional tensions. Economists say a growing and diversified export base, anchored by technology and digital services, could help cushion the broader economy against external shocks and strengthen the country’s foreign exchange reserves over time.
Officials say the government is continuing to push digital economy initiatives, including startup funding programmes and streamlined business registration, to further accelerate the sector’s expansion in the coming fiscal year.
