by The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has launched a high-impact task force on Industry Data Collection, aiming to empower IT companies and the freelancer community with comprehensive support—ultimately heightening export earnings and global competitiveness.
What’s the Task Force’s Game Plan?
- Mapping the IT Ecosystem
The task force will digitally profile freelancers, remote workers, and software firms—tracking skills, earnings, export potential, and their presence on global platforms. - Streamlining Regulations
A proposed Digital Economy Cell will simplify international marketing, client outreach, and the regulatory process to reduce bureaucratic hurdles. - Fair Taxation & Forex Incentives
By clearly differentiating between freelancers and remote workers, the task force seeks to resolve tax overlaps and encourage official dollar inflowsi. - Upskilling for Global Standards
Initiatives include free training, mentorship, certifications, laptop programs, and co-working spaces to launch a surge of globally competitive talent. - Performance-Linked Rewards
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be used to incentivize top exporters and elevate Pakistan’s position in global IT services .
Leadership & Oversight
Formed under the Prime Minister’s directive, the task force is chaired by the Federal IT & Telecom Minister. Key members include Governor SBP Jamil Ahmed, FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial, Pakistan Freelancers Association Chair Ibrahim Amin, and senior representatives from NITB, PSEB, IGNITE, among others.
A Vision Backed by Data & Leadership
Ibrahim Amin, Chair of the Pakistan Freelancers Association, called the task force “Pakistan’s digital economy the radar it needs to navigate, scale, and lead globally.” He added that if executed precisely, this “data-powered revolution could double IT exports within 5 years, elevate Pakistan to the top 5 freelance markets globally, and inject billions of dollars into the national economy” .
Why It Matters
- Data-Driven Empowerment
Accurate profiling enables better policy formulation, targeted training, and incentives aligned with exporter profiles. - Leveling the Playing Field
Clear tax policies and foreign exchange channels can enhance earnings and transparency for freelancers and professionals. - Talent Development with Scale
Access to certifications, co-working spaces, and mentorship will cultivate a stronger digital workforce. - Export Acceleration Through Reward
KPIs aligned with rewards can motivate higher productivity and elevate Pakistan’s IT export standings. - Unified Stakeholder Governance
With representation from finance, regulatory, and industry bodies, the task force ensures cohesive and supportive policy implementation.
Final Word
This task force represents a bold, coordinated step toward unlocking Pakistan’s IT and freelancer economy. By combining data, regulation reform, capacity building, and fiscal incentives, the government aims to spark a transformative boost in digital exports—and establish Pakistan as a leading global tech hub.
