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On the occasion of the Special Investment Facilitation Council second anniversary, Pakistan has taken meaningful steps toward strengthening its digital economy. One of the most notable developments is the enablement of PayPal services for freelancers in the country. This initiative, currently in its trial phase, allows 10,000 freelancers to receive payments from international clients without needing their own PayPal accounts. The funds are routed through a local mediator and deposited directly into Pakistani bank accounts, making the process simpler and more accessible.
SIFC’s efforts have gone beyond just payments. Over 43 IT parks are now active, with major facilities underway in Islamabad and Karachi. These spaces are built to support startups and independent professionals with co-working areas and training centers. Alongside this, the launch of more than 10,000 E-Rozgar centres aims to empower 50,000 freelancers annually.
Foreign investment is also growing, with companies like Google, Microsoft, and Cisco supporting the Digital Pakistan initiative.
IT exports have crossed $3.2 billion, and a technology transfer agreement with China is in progress. To support further growth, the government has introduced special foreign currency accounts and a 50% dollar retention policy. All of this signals a strong shift toward a more connected, digital future for Pakistan.
