KARACHI: The Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) and Habib Bank Limited (HBL) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to empower freelancers across Pakistan through enhanced banking services and initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s freelancing ecosystem.
The agreement was signed by Faisal Malik, Head HBL Konnect, and Dr Imran Batada, Global CIO Award Winner and President, PAFLA, 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 agreement, HBL will facilitate PAFLA members by providing specialised banking products, foreign currency accounts, international payment solutions and digital banking services.
PAFLA and HBL will also take initiatives to support freelancers in upskilling through financial literacy workshops, educational sessions and professional development programmes. Both organisations will support sustainable entrepreneurship, income growth and economic empowerment among freelancers across Pakistan.
The two organisations will 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, contributing significantly to foreign exchange inflows, creating jobs and helping reduce unemployment in the country.
He said the role of banking institutions was important in facilitating freelancers not only through banking services but also through initiatives promoting skill development and financial literacy.
Pakistan has nearly three million freelancers, making it the fourth-largest 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.
