KARACHI: The Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) and Habib Bank Limited (HBL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate freelancers across Pakistan through improved banking services and measures aimed at strengthening the country’s freelancing ecosystem.
The MoU was signed by Faisal Malik, Head HBL Konnect, and Dr Imran Batada, Global CIO Award Winner and President, PAFLA. The signing took place in the presence of Muhammad Nassir Salim, President and CEO, HBL; Aalishaan Zaidi, Head Retail, HBL; Ibrahim Amin, Co-founder and Chairman, PAFLA; Fahad Sheikh, Co-founder, PAFLA; Farheen Fatima, Chief Growth and Strategy, PAFLA; and senior officials from both organisations.
Under the arrangement, HBL will facilitate PAFLA members with specialised banking products, foreign currency accounts, international payment solutions and digital banking services.
PAFLA and HBL will also launch initiatives to help freelancers enhance their skills through financial literacy workshops, educational sessions and professional development programmes. The two organisations will support sustainable entrepreneurship, income growth and economic empowerment among freelancers across Pakistan.
Both sides will further work to strengthen Pakistan’s freelancing ecosystem through joint events, community engagement, industry partnerships and awareness initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, PAFLA Chairman Ibrahim Amin said freelancers were becoming an integral part of the digital economy and were contributing significantly to bringing foreign exchange into the country, creating jobs and reducing unemployment.
He said banking institutions had an important role in facilitating freelancers not only through banking services but also through initiatives promoting skill development and financial literacy.
Pakistan has nearly 3 million freelancers, making it the fourth biggest freelancing market in the world.
“Freelancers are playing an increasingly important role in Pakistan's digital economy, creating new opportunities and connecting local talent with global markets. At HBL, we are committed to supporting their growth through tailored financial solutions and greater digital inclusion. As AI reshapes the future of work, investing in freelancer upskilling is no longer optional but imperative. PAFLA can serve as a key enabler in helping freelancers build future-ready capabilities, navigate disruption, and unlock sustainable growth opportunities. Together, we aim to empower freelancers and strengthen Pakistan's digital economy,” said Muhammad Nassir Salim, President and CEO, Habib Bank Limited.
