Pakistan’s SMEs are increasingly looking to global markets, making reliable cross-border payment systems more important for technology firms, digital agencies, e-commerce sellers and SaaS companies, Payoneer said.

Pakistan’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector continued to expand during 2025-26. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey, ICT export remittances increased 19.7% year on year and generated a trade surplus of $2.91 billion.

The number of IT and IT-enabled services companies registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan also increased during the period.

The growth has encouraged more Pakistani businesses to sell services and products internationally. These companies need payment systems that can help them manage different currencies, control costs and maintain cash flow as they expand.

Cross-border payments support global expansion

Payoneer said its financial infrastructure allows eligible Pakistani businesses to receive payments in major currencies. Businesses can also issue payment requests, manage funds and pay overseas suppliers and contractors through the platform.

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The company also works with local banks and financial institutions. These connections allow businesses to transfer international earnings into Pakistan through local withdrawals.

Nagesh Devata, SVP and Head of APAC at Payoneer, said Pakistani businesses have the talent and ambition to compete in international markets.

“Pakistan’s businesses have the capabilities, ambition and talent to compete globally,” Devata said.

He added that companies also need financial infrastructure that can keep pace with international growth.

According to Devata, simpler international payment processes can help small and medium-sized businesses turn overseas sales into more predictable working capital.

ICT exports create new opportunities

Pakistan’s growing ICT sector has created opportunities for businesses to serve customers outside the country.

Technology companies can sell software and digital services across borders without establishing a physical presence in every market. E-commerce businesses can also reach international customers through digital platforms.

However, managing international payments remains an important part of running a global business.

Companies must handle currency conversions, supplier payments and the transfer of export earnings. Efficient payment systems can help businesses reduce delays and manage their finances more effectively.

Formal inflows could support economy

Payoneer said stronger payment infrastructure could also benefit Pakistan’s wider economy.

More efficient international payment channels can encourage businesses to report and receive export earnings through formal financial systems. This could strengthen SME cash flows and increase participation in global trade.

For smaller businesses, reliable access to international payments can also make it easier to plan expenses and invest in growth.

Pakistan’s expanding digital economy could further increase demand for such services as more local businesses target customers in overseas markets.

Payoneer said the combination of growing exports and improved financial infrastructure could help Pakistani businesses compete more effectively in the global economy.