Pakistan’s Marketing Services Exports Rise 19% as Agencies Target Global Growth

Pakistan’s exports of advertising and market research services increased 19% year-on-year to $30.7 million in July–September 2026, compared with $25.8 million in the same period last year, according to State Bank of Pakistan data.

The growth provided the backdrop for Payoneer Connect Lahore, where more than 40 marketing agencies gathered to explore international business opportunities and strategies for expanding their global reach.

Hosted by global financial technology company Payoneer, the event carried the theme “The Export Era of Global Marketing.” It brought together agency leaders, representatives of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), Google and artificial intelligence practitioners.

Professional Services Exports Show Wider Growth

Pakistan’s services export growth also extended beyond advertising and market research.

State Bank data showed that exports under the broader category of other business services reached $620 million during July–September 2026, marking a 27% increase year-on-year.

This category includes public relations, consulting and technical services. Within it, consulting and public relations exports rose 22% to $81.2 million.

Oil Prices Fall as Trump Signals Restraint on Military Action Against Iran

These figures highlight the expanding contribution of professional services to Pakistan’s export economy.

Agentic AI Offers New Opportunities for Marketing Agencies

A fireside chat on agentic AI explored how Pakistani agencies could move beyond traditional freelancing and outsourcing models.

Ali Imran Memon, founder and CEO of Kitsune AI, discussed how agencies could turn their expertise into AI-powered agents and products rather than relying solely on billable hours.

The conversation also examined different pricing models for AI services, including subscriptions, task-based charges and outcome-based payments.

The discussion highlighted the potential for agencies to develop scalable services and reach international clients through specialised AI solutions.

Google Highlights AI-Powered Market Localisation

Google’s Customer Solutions team demonstrated how AI tools can help Pakistani businesses adapt their services for international markets.

AI-powered localisation can help companies tailor their offerings to different markets and customer needs. As a result, agencies can explore new cross-border opportunities while managing the costs of expansion.

P@SHA Highlights Policy Support for Export Growth

Industry policy and advocacy also featured prominently at the event.

P@SHA Vice Chairman Samad Saleem outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen the policy environment for Pakistan’s digital services exports.

The discussions took place as the government pursues its target of increasing IT exports to $15 billion by 2030.

The event highlighted the role of AI adoption, international client acquisition, specialised services and supportive policies in helping Pakistani marketing agencies expand beyond domestic markets.