PayPal Comes to Pakistan as SIFC Celebrates 2nd Anniversary
On June 18, 2025, Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) celebrated its second anniversary by launching a pilot project with PayPal—allowing 10,000 local freelancers to receive international payments through the platform. This marks a major milestone toward integrating Pakistan into the global digital economy.
Background: SIFC & Its Mandate
- What is SIFC?
Established two years ago, SIFC aims to streamline investment and digital services in Pakistan—backed by government and military leadership. - Milestones so far
In its first two years, SIFC facilitated large-scale mineral-sector deals and helped channel over $2 billion in foreign investments—simplifying processes and boosting Pakistan’s economic growth.
Why PayPal Pilot Matters
- Addressing a long-standing challenge
For years, Pakistani freelancers have lacked direct access to global payment gateways—a hindrance to international freelancing. The PayPal pilot aims to correct this gap. - Pilot program specifics
The initiative will initially serve around 10,000 freelancers, enabling them to receive PayPal payments—reducing dependence on informal channels and bolstering transparency.
Economic Impact & Digital Growth
- Freelancer community scale
Pakistan boasts the world’s second-largest online freelance workforce, with approximately 1 million freelancers and 75,000 new IT graduates per year. - Broader implications
Easier access to international payments could boost earnings, drive remittances, and fuel local tech businesses. It aligns with SIFC’s goals of digital economy growth and foreign investment facilitation.
What’s Next
- Pilot expansion?
If successful, SIFC plans to extend access to a broader freelancer base. - Policy alignment
The effort aligns with government measures allowing IT firms to retain 50% of export revenue in USD within Pakistan. - Long-term goal
Integrating Pakistan into mainstream digital payments, uplifting the economy, and making the country a competitive ‘tech destination’.
Conclusion
SIFC’s second-anniversary launch of the PayPal pilot marks a key shift toward formalizing Pakistan’s freelance economy. With potential long-term gains for income transparency, global integration, and policy support, this initiative could redefine the country’s digital landscape.
