Islamabad, Jan 14: In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize Pakistan’s freelance industry, Dr. Umar Saif, the Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, announced the launch of a new payment system through PayPal in Pakistan aimed at empowering the country’s freelancer community.
The new initiative will start in February and enable 10,000 freelancers to receive payments via PayPal. It plans nationwide expansion by March.
Dr. Saif announced this during his address at the Tech Destination Pakistan event, which also launched E-Rozgar Centers nationwide.
The pilot project will allow freelancers to receive payments from international clients via PayPal in Pakistan without needing their own PayPal accounts.
PayPal in Pakistan
Payments will process through a third-party intermediary, allowing freelancers to access funds directly in their bank accounts.
Dr. Saif emphasized that while PayPal itself will not be directly operating in Pakistan, the agreement will streamline the payment process for Pakistan’s global freelancer base.
This groundbreaking development comes with additional perks: freelancers will be able to retain up to 50% of their earnings in US dollars, offering them greater financial flexibility.
To further support their financial autonomy, freelancers will also receive debit cards, enabling domestic and international transactions.
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In addition to the PayPal system in Pakistan, Dr. Saif revealed plans to establish more than 250 E-Rozgar centers nationwide through a public-private partnership.
These centers will offer interest-free loans to qualified individuals and startups, creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and freelancing.
With 40 centers already under construction, this initiative aims to provide vital infrastructure to the freelancer community, helping them grow and thrive.
Furthermore, the government has announced the launch of a standardized quality test for 75,000 IT graduates, set for January 15, 2024.
In an effort to boost industry-specific skill development, the government will also provide international certifications in technologies like Salesforce, Cisco, and Microsoft, ensuring that Pakistani IT professionals stay competitive on the global stage. These initiatives have already contributed to a 13% rise in IT revenue over the past month.
With these bold initiatives, the Pakistani government is not only nurturing a thriving IT ecosystem but is also positioning the country as a hub for global freelancers, offering unparalleled opportunities for the next generation of tech talent.
