The China digital skills training Pakistan initiative is set to expand as China will provide digital skills training to 300,000 Pakistani youths every year, according to Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal. The announcement was made during the 3rd Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) IT Freelancing Awards 2026 in Lahore.
Addressing the event, Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan has become the world’s fourth-largest freelancing country, with young professionals making a significant contribution to the digital economy and export earnings. He said equipping more young people with advanced digital skills would strengthen the country’s technology sector and improve its global competitiveness.
The minister emphasized that knowledge, innovation, and technology have become the most valuable assets in the modern economy. He said success no longer depends on large investments or extensive office infrastructure, as skilled professionals can now compete globally through digital platforms and remote services.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol urged freelancers and IT professionals to adopt artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to remain competitive in international markets. He said innovation and information technology are central to Pakistan’s “Uraan Pakistan” vision and can accelerate the country’s transition into a regional digital economy hub.
Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman praised Pakistani freelancers for earning valuable foreign exchange and promoting a positive image of the country worldwide. He said freelancers have become an important pillar of Pakistan’s digital economy and deserve stronger institutional support.
The provincial minister said the Punjab government is working with the federal government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to improve international payment systems for freelancers. He added that investments are also being made in digital infrastructure, technology parks, IT zones, innovation hubs, and artificial intelligence initiatives across Punjab.
The China digital skills training Pakistan programme reflects broader efforts to prepare young Pakistanis for emerging technologies and global digital markets. Officials said the long-term objective is to develop not only successful freelancers but also AI specialists, technology entrepreneurs, startup founders, and future global innovation leaders.
