When you think of Pakistan’s exports, software might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But that’s beginning to change. Pakistan’s IT sector has been carving out a name for itself, and this month, it hit a milestone that deserves more attention.
A New Shape of Growth in Pakistan’s Software Exports
For the first time, Pakistan’s software services exports crossed the $1 billion mark in just 11 months. According to data from the State Bank of Pakistan, reported by both Business Recorder, the country earned $1.01 billion between July and May of the current financial year, a 27.4% increase over the same period last year.
What stands out isn’t just the growth, but where it’s coming from. Nearly 30% of total IT and ITeS exports came from software consultancy, reflecting a shift toward higher-value, knowledge-driven services. This marks a move away from transactional outsourcing and toward more strategic, integrated work.
As detailed by ProPakistani, the full breakdown over the 11 months includes:
- Custom software development: $534 million
- Call centre services: $298 million
- Telecom-related services: $199 million
These figures brought total IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) exports to $3.47 billion between July and May, with projections for the full year ranging between $3.85 and $3.9 billion. While slightly below the $4 billion target, this performance still marks the highest export total to date, with internet disruptions as a likely cause for the shortfall.
Software Consultancy Leads the Way
According to Business Recorder, the government, particularly through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), has actively supported Pakistan’s IT industry in expanding into new markets, including the Gulf, ASEAN, and European regions. With support from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), these outreach efforts aim to position Pakistan as a long-term partner for global software and consultancy needs.
Muhammad Umair Nizam, Senior Vice Chairman of P@SHA, noted in both sources that software consultancy is now the sector’s core strength and central to pushing exports to an all-time high.
AI Is Changing the Rules
Dr Noman Said, CEO of SI Global Solutions, pointed out that AI tools and solutions are already reducing service demand across the country. He encouraged IT companies to treat this shift as an opportunity and rethink their positioning in a rapidly evolving global tech environment.
Dr Said stressed that Pakistani IT firms must evolve quickly. He advised companies to target mega projects in foreign markets, with a focus on software and hardware services, as well as the installation of IT applications across diverse industries.
What Pakistan’s Tech Export Growth Means for Investors
This transformation in Pakistan’s export landscape has wider implications. The surge in software consultancy and IT-enabled services is helping reposition Pakistan as a competitive player in the global services economy. For sectors like real estate, particularly those catering to overseas investors, this renewed global confidence matters. A digitally capable, export-earning Pakistan inspires trust. And trust is the foundation for long-term investment, not just in tech, but in every part of the economy that’s ready to scale.
