China will train up to 300,000 Pakistani youths in digital skills annually, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has announced. He said the programme would strengthen Pakistan’s technology sector and expand its knowledge economy. Iqbal made the announcement during a discussion with Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Faheemur Rehman Saigol. The session took place at the 3rd LCCI IT Freelancing Awards 2026 late on Saturday night. “Pakistan has emerged as the fourth-largest freelancing country in the world and the talent and capabilities of its youth are playing a vital role in expanding the digital economy and boosting exports,” Iqbal said. He argued that large offices and heavy investment no longer guarantee success. Instead, knowledge, practical skills and access to technology have become the most valuable assets. Pakistani youths, he added, are serving global clients while earning valuable foreign exchange. Freelancers urged to embrace AI Saigol urged freelancers and IT professionals to adopt artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. He said this was essential for remaining competitive in fast-changing global markets. The LCCI president said public-private cooperation could turn Pakistan into a major regional digital economy hub. He called innovation, IT and the digital economy central pillars of the Uraan Pakistan vision. Local freelancers, he added, could help turn that vision into reality. Read More: PM Shehbaz Wants 100% Digital Remittances. Why It Matters The announcement comes as Pakistan’s technology exports reached a record $4.6 billion in fiscal year 2025-26. This represented annual growth of about 21 percent. June exports alone reached $416 million, according to State Bank data reported by Dawn. The government targets $10 billion in IT exports by fiscal year 2028-29 under Uraan Pakistan. Punjab promises payment reforms and AI investment Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman praised LCCI for recognising talented Pakistani freelancers. He said freelancing had become a major economic pillar, generating millions of dollars in foreign exchange each year. “Pakistani freelancers are, in fact, digital ambassadors of the country who are projecting a positive image of Pakistan on the global stage,” he said. Rehman said Punjab understands the need for internationally accepted payment systems and a strong digital financial ecosystem. The province is working with the federal government and Special Investment Facilitation Council to remove international payment barriers. Its objective is to provide freelancers with secure, fast and convenient channels for receiving earnings. He reiterated Punjab’s commitment to business-friendly policies, transparency and predictable economic measures. He also pledged support for digital services exports and other foreign exchange earners. According to Rehman, Punjab is investing in digital infrastructure, technology parks, IT zones and innovation hubs. These projects aim to create employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people. He said Punjab was the first province to launch large-scale AI initiatives. It now wants to become Pakistan’s centre for AI, innovation and digital entrepreneurship. The government’s vision extends beyond producing successful freelancers, he added. It also seeks to develop AI professionals, startup founders and global technology leaders.