Pakistan’s IT Exports  Grow for  17 Consecutive Months

Pakistan’s IT Exports Grow for 17 Consecutive Months

 

Pakistan’s IT exports achieved a remarkable milestone in February 2025, reaching $305 million—a 19% year-on-year increase compared to February 2024. Although this figure reflects a 3% monthly decline from January, due to February’s shorter duration, it still marks the 17th consecutive month of consistent growth since October 2023.

Between July 2024 and February 2025, the country’s IT exports totaled $2.48 billion, showcasing a 26% increase from the same period in the previous fiscal year. February alone saw daily export earnings average $16.1 million, highlighting the sustained demand for Pakistani IT services despite global economic uncertainties.

Industry analysts attribute this growth to various factors, including the expansion of business networks within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and supportive fiscal policies. The State Bank of Pakistan’s recent policy changes, such as raising the permissible retention limit in Exporters’ Specialized Foreign Currency Accounts from 35% to 50%, have encouraged exporters to repatriate a greater portion of their earnings. These changes have also facilitated equity investments in international ventures, boosting confidence in the sector.

Pakistani IT companies are increasingly strengthening ties with global clients, reflected in their participation in international events like LEAP 2025 in Saudi Arabia and the Web Summit in Qatar. A recent survey by P@SHA revealed that 62% of local IT firms are managing foreign currency accounts, demonstrating adaptability to evolving financial landscapes.

Additionally, the State Bank’s introduction of a new category for Equity Investment Abroad (EIA) has empowered export-driven IT companies to acquire stakes in international businesses using up to 50% of their proceeds. This policy aims to incentivize growth and facilitate the repatriation of profits.

In February 2025, net IT exports (exports minus imports) amounted to $278 million, reflecting a 21% year-on-year increase. Analysts project a 10-15% annual growth rate for the IT sector in fiscal year 2025, potentially reaching $3.7 billion in total exports. Under the government’s ambitious ‘Uraan Pakistan’ economic initiative, the IT industry aims to achieve $10 billion in annual exports by 2029, requiring a compound annual growth rate of 28% to meet this target.

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