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100 Tech Heroes of Pakistan 2026: Nominations Are Open

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

100 Tech Heroes of Pakistan 2026 is a Connected Pakistan initiative recognizing 100 individuals making meaningful impact in the country's technology ecosystem. First introduced at CPC23 in 2023, this new edition welcomes founders, developers, freelancers, researchers, educators, and changemakers. Nominations are open, you can nominate yourself or someone deserving, based on impact rather than titles.

2,545   2,334 Read Article

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ResearchTechnologyPakistan+3

5G in Pakistan: Big Promises, Bigger Connectivity Gap

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan’s 5G rollout promises faster connectivity and economic growth, but challenges remain. With low fiber penetration and limited rural internet access, the benefits of 5G may initially reach only major cities, raising concerns about digital inclusion and infrastructure readiness across the country.

2,147   1,268 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX

A Unicorn With Pakistani Roots Just Emerged. But Is Fasset Really "Pakistan's Unicorn"?

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Fasset, a UAE-based stablecoin fintech co-founded by Lahore-born Daniel Ahmed, reached a $1 billion valuation in August 2026 after a $68 million Series C led by SBI Group. While celebrated as a "Pakistani unicorn," it's more accurately a global fintech with Pakistani roots, its major Pakistan plans (real estate tokenization) are promising but still largely aspirational.

2,496   1,315 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+2

Abdur Rehman: Building Pakistan’s Startup Ecosystem Through Innovation

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Abdur Rehman is a Pakistani entrepreneur, startup growth strategist, and ecosystem builder working on startup development, talent enablement, AI-driven business systems, and entrepreneurship opportunities through ventures including Rozi Academy, Rexen Solutions, and TUAM E KHAAS.

3,555   993 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+4

Afroze Khan: From Byteify’s Collapse to Revenue Incarnate. The Pakistani Operator Quietly Rebuilding How Service Businesses Sell

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Afroze Khan is the founder of Revenue Incarnate, a Karachi and Las Vegas based revenue systems firm. After the collapse of his first company, Byteify, he developed a methodology focused on fixing offer positioning, pipeline architecture, and revenue infrastructure, helping service businesses scale through Revenue as a Service.

2,327   2,371 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+1

AI Is Killing Entry-Level Tech Jobs in Pakistan. So How Does Anyone Start Now

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

New P@SHA data shows AI has cut entry-level tech hiring in Pakistan by around 25% since 2024, with basic writing, data entry, and junior coding roles most exposed. But demand is rising for AI engineering, cloud, and cybersecurity skills. The entry-level "ladder" is changing, newcomers must now start with AI-augmented, higher-value skills rather than routine tasks.

1,814   1,803 Read Article

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BusinessPakistanCP+3

AI Jobs in Pakistan 2026: Salaries, Skills, and How to Start

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI jobs are among Pakistan's fastest-growing and highest-paying tech careers in 2026. Top roles include machine learning engineer, data scientist, AI engineer, and NLP specialist. Local salaries range from about PKR 50,000-80,000/month for entry level to PKR 200,000+ for senior roles, while remote work for global clients can pay $1,000-3,000+ monthly.

3,168   2,088 Read Article

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CPKXTechnology+1

AI Jobs in Pakistan: Opportunities, Skills, and Career Growth

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI jobs in Pakistan are growing rapidly as businesses adopt artificial intelligence and machine learning. Roles like data scientist, machine learning engineer, AI software developer, and NLP specialist are in high demand, offering high-paying opportunities for skilled professionals in tech and digital industries.

2,111   2,354 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+5

AI Just Started Solving Problems Humans Couldn't. What It Means for Pakistan

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In August 2026, AI crossed a threshold from completing tasks to contributing original, verifiable research, an AI system reportedly solved 10 long-unsolved math and computer-science problems with checkable proofs. Combined with AI assistants crossing a billion users each and collapsing costs, it signals AI becoming a genuine tool for discovery, with real opportunities and challenges for Pakistan.

3,060   1,078 Read Article

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ResearchTechnologyCP+3

Ali Javan: The Forgotten Genius Who Built the Gas Laser

Syed - Connected Pakistan

Ali Javan (1926-2016) was an Iranian-American physicist who co-invented the first gas laser, the helium-neon laser, in 1960 at Bell Labs. It was the world's first continuous-beam laser, enabling barcode scanners, fiber-optic internet, laser printers, and medical devices. On December 13, 1960, Javan used it to make the first-ever laser-transmitted phone call.

1,530   2,396 Read Article

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EducationBusinessTechnology+4

Alibaba BNPL in Pakistan: Opportunity or Hidden Risk?

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Alibaba’s entry into Pakistan’s BNPL market through KOKO Tech introduces new financial access opportunities but also raises concerns about debt risks, low financial literacy, and limited consumer protection frameworks in the country.

5,386   2,214 Read Article

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ResearchTechnologyCP+3

Apple vs OpenAI Lawsuit: The AI Hardware War Explained

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

On July 10, 2026, Apple sued OpenAI in California federal court, alleging OpenAI stole trade secrets to develop its own AI hardware. Apple claims OpenAI recruited Apple employees and encouraged them to share confidential product information. OpenAI denies interest in others' trade secrets. The case marks a dramatic breakdown of the 2024 Apple-OpenAI partnership.

2,782   2,386 Read Article

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BusinessTechnologyCP+3

Apple's $30 Billion Chip Deal: What It Means Globally

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

On July 8, 2026, Apple announced a multiyear agreement with Broadcom exceeding $30 billion to produce over 15 billion US-made chips through at least 2031. It is Apple's largest commitment under its American Manufacturing Program, includes a $1.5 billion expansion of Broadcom's Fort Collins, Colorado facility, and is part of Apple's $600 billion US investment.

3,090   1,206 Read Article

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CPKX

Arham Abid: The Entrepreneur Building Pakistan's AI and Automation Future

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Arham Abid is a Pakistani entrepreneur and automation strategist who built multiple global companies focused on AI systems, virtual assistants, and agency automation. Through Mastermind Pakistan, he is now helping Pakistani entrepreneurs access world-class AI and automation knowledge to compete globally.

629   55 Read Article

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CPKXMobile & Gadgets

Best Budget Smartphones in Pakistan 2026: A Buyer's Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best budget smartphones in Pakistan for 2026 come from Infinix, Tecno, Redmi, Realme, and Samsung. Under Rs 30,000, prioritize battery and storage; under Rs 40,000, expect 120Hz displays and better cameras; under Rs 50,000, near-flagship features. Always confirm PTA approval, aim for 6GB+ RAM, 128GB storage, and a 5000mAh battery.

2,138   865 Read Article

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CPKXMobile & Gadgets+1

Best Budget Smartphones in Pakistan Under PKR 50,000 (2026)

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best budget smartphones under PKR 50,000 in Pakistan (2026) include the Infinix Hot 60 Pro for gaming (144Hz AMOLED), the Tecno Spark 40 Pro for balanced value, the Redmi Note 14 as the safest all-rounder, and the itel S26 Ultra for its premium display. Always verify PTA approval and check the IMEI before buying.

4,338   1,411 Read Article

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CPKXTechnology+2

Best Payment Gateways for Pakistani Freelancers in 2026

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani freelancers receive international payments through platforms like Payoneer, Wise, Skrill, and local wallets such as JazzCash or EasyPaisa. Since PayPal is not officially available in Pakistan, these services help freelancers withdraw earnings from global clients and freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.

10,700   1,263 Read Article

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CPKXFreelancing+1

Best Remote Jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 and How to Get Them

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

The best remote jobs for Pakistanis in 2026 include software developer ($30,000-$100,000+/year), UI/UX designer, data analyst, cybersecurity analyst, video editor, digital marketer, and virtual assistant. Most need only skills, not a degree. Find work on Upwork, LinkedIn, Toptal, Turing, and remote-first company career pages, and get paid via Payoneer or Wise.

2,217   1,505 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+2

Binance Gets Pakistan AML Approval: What It Means for You

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

easypaisa digital bank signed an MoU with Binance on June 17, 2026, to explore digital savings and investment solutions in Pakistan. The deal follows Binance gaining AML registration from PVARA, Pakistan's new crypto regulator under the Virtual Assets Act 2026, marking a major step toward regulated digital assets in the country.

4,120   827 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+2

BISP Digital Wallets: How Pakistan Is Banking 10 Million Poor Women

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is shifting payments for over 10 million poor women to CNIC-linked digital wallets in 2026, aiming for 100% digital payments. With 8 million+ free SIMs distributed and an interoperable system allowing withdrawals at any partner agent, it ends long queues and middlemen deductions, a major financial-inclusion and women's-empowerment step.

2,356   1,706 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+2

ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini in 2026: Which AI Should Pakistanis Actually Use?

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

In 2026, there's no single "best" AI assistant, the right one depends on your task. Broadly: ChatGPT is a strong all-rounder with the widest features; Claude excels at writing and coding; and Gemini integrates best with Google tools. All offer free tiers usable in Pakistan. The smart approach is matching the tool to the job.

3,086   2,221 Read Article

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CPKXTechnology

ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini: Best AI for Pakistanis 2026

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

For Pakistani professionals in 2026, the best AI depends on your work. Claude leads for writing quality and coding, ChatGPT offers the broadest features and ecosystem, and Gemini is best for research and Google Workspace users. All three cost about $20/month for paid tiers, with capable free versions. Many professionals use a combination.

2,229   960 Read Article

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PakistanCPKX+2

Dr. Samar Mubarakmand: Pakistan's Quiet Scientific Giant

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Dr. Samar Mubarakmand is a renowned Pakistani nuclear physicist, born in 1942, known for his research in gamma spectroscopy and building the Charged Particle Accelerator at PINSTECH. Oxford-educated, he was a pioneer of fibre-optic technology in Pakistan, founding chairman of NESCOM, and today leads mineral exploration as chairman of the Punjab Mineral Company.

2,468   862 Read Article

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ResearchTechnologyCP+2

Every AI Prompt Drinks Water. What That Means for Thirsty Pakistan

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI consumes significant water, mainly to cool the data centers running it. Estimates vary widely (from under 2ml to over 150ml per query), but aggregate use is large: Google reported around 6.4 billion gallons in 2023. For water-stressed Pakistan, this matters as the country considers data-center ambitions amid an already severe water crisis.

2,524   827 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanGovernment+6

FIA and Meta Deal Could Cut Cybercrime Cases to Days

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency has established a direct official channel with Meta Asia Pacific to speed up investigations into organised cybercrime, online fraud, and hate speech. Meta formally recognised the FIA's Single Point of Contact at the National Command and Control Centre (NC3). Response times for lawful requests are expected to fall from months to days.

3,342   1,252 Read Article

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ResearchTechnologyPakistan+3

Fiverr, Upwork Decline: What It Means for Pakistan Freelancers

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

AI is transforming freelancing by automating basic tasks like design, writing, and coding. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are seeing slowdowns as clients shift to AI tools. However, freelancers who adapt by offering strategy, problem-solving, and high-value services can still grow and succeed.

3,813   1,147 Read Article

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EducationTechnologyPakistan+6

Free Google AI for Pakistani Students: Inside the New Google-Pakistan Deal

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan and Google signed an agreement to expand tech cooperation, giving Pakistani students free one-year access to Google AI tools including Gemini and AI Plus. The deal also establishes an AI Center of Excellence in Islamabad, expands Google Career Certificates, and applies AI to agriculture and small businesses, aiming to boost digital skills and IT exports.

2,804   1,117 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+4

From Lahore to Texas: How Mudassir Saleem Malik Is Building the Bridge Between Pakistan's Tech Talent and the Global AI Economy

Zarish - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Mudassir Saleem Malik is a Pakistani AI strategist and CEO of AppsGenii Technologies, helping global enterprises adopt AI. Based in Texas, he connects Pakistan’s tech talent with international markets while contributing to Pakistan’s startup ecosystem through ventures, leadership roles, and AI-driven innovation.

2,639   1,417 Read Article

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EducationResearchTechnology+4

Future of Remote Work in Pakistan: Trends and Opportunities

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Remote work in Pakistan is rapidly expanding due to the growth of freelancing, IT exports, and global demand for digital talent. With improved internet access and digital skills training, Pakistani professionals increasingly work with international companies, making remote work a key driver of the country’s digital economy.

4,099   2,419 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+7

Get Hired as a Full Employee by a Foreign Company, From Pakistan. Here's How EOR Works

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

An Employer of Record (EOR) lets a foreign company hire a Pakistani as a full-time employee, with salary, benefits, and a proper contract, without setting up a local office. A third-party EOR provider (like Deel or Remote) legally employs you on the company's behalf, handling payroll and compliance. It's a fast-growing alternative to freelancing.

2,702   1,225 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+1

Google Is Giving 350,000 Free Career Certificates to Pakistanis: How to Get One

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Google has expanded its digital skills program to offer 350,000 free Career Certificates to Pakistanis, adding 150,000 new scholarships. The online, industry-recognized courses cover AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, digital marketing, and e-commerce, normally costing $400–$1,000 each. They're accessible through partners like Tech Valley and provincial higher education bodies, aiming to build job-ready digital skills.

6,116   884 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+2

Google Officially Opens Its Pakistan Office: What It Means for the Country

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Google officially opened its Pakistan office in Islamabad on August 18, 2026, inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif alongside Google Vice President for Global Affairs Wilson L. White. The move marks a major expansion of Google's presence, follows the start of Chromebook manufacturing in Haripur, and signals growing big-tech confidence in Pakistan's digital economy.

3,020   1,234 Read Article

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ResearchCPKX+2

Google Personal Intelligence: Is Your Photo Data Safe?

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Google's Personal Intelligence is an opt-in feature launched in January 2026 that lets Gemini access your Google Photos, Gmail, YouTube history, and Search to give personalized AI responses. It is off by default, you choose which apps to connect, and Google says your data stays on its servers and is not used for ads.

2,349   2,166 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+3

How Pakistan Became a Global Freelancing Hub

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistan has become one of the world’s leading freelancing hubs due to its young digital workforce, strong presence on global freelance platforms, growing internet access, and increasing demand for remote services. Thousands of Pakistani professionals now offer skills in web development, design, marketing, and technology to clients worldwide.

3,306   2,540 Read Article

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EducationResearchCP+3

How Pakistani Agencies Scale to Global Success

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Scaling an agency in Pakistan requires strong systems, niche positioning, and effective client acquisition. Successful agencies move from freelancing to structured teams, focus on value-based pricing, and build global client relationships. With the right strategy, Pakistani agencies can compete and grow internationally.

2,971   2,661 Read Article

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BusinessTechnologyPakistan+3

How Pakistani SMEs Can Actually Get Financing in 2026 (Beyond Just Banks)

Syed - Connected Pakistan

Pakistani SMEs, which contribute around 40% of GDP, often struggle to get bank financing due to collateral demands and cautious lending. Real options in 2026 include development funds like SEDF (which cover up to 70% of financing), SBP-backed SME schemes, government programs, supplier and invoice financing, and emerging fintech lenders. Preparing clean financial records is essential.

2,370   848 Read Article

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EducationBusinessResearch+4

How Pakistani Startups Are Growing Through eCommerce

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani startups are growing rapidly through eCommerce by leveraging online marketplaces, digital marketing, and mobile commerce. Increasing internet access, smartphone adoption, and digital payment systems have enabled startups to reach nationwide and global customers while scaling faster than traditional retail businesses.

3,730   2,855 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+4

How Pakistani Women Are Winning in Tech and Freelancing

Abdullah Awan - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Pakistani women are increasingly succeeding in tech and freelancing, often earning equal or slightly higher hourly rates than men, reversing the global gender gap. Though women make up only 15-25% of freelancers, their participation is rising fast, driven by remote work's flexibility, government laptop and training schemes, and growing digital access across the country.

1,275   1,941 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+2

How TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Shorts Are Shaping Pakistan’s Digital Space

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are reshaping content creation and marketing in Pakistan. These platforms drive engagement, offer monetization opportunities for creators, and are becoming essential tools for businesses to reach younger audiences.

2,856   2,581 Read Article

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EducationCPKX

How to Become the Most Valuable Person in Any Network

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Becoming the most valuable person in any network requires consistently adding value, building trust, sharing knowledge, and helping others succeed. By connecting people, solving problems, and maintaining genuine relationships, individuals can develop influence and become trusted members of professional communities.

3,075   2,932 Read Article

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TechnologyPakistanCP+7

How to Earn Your First Income With AI Tools in Pakistan

Muhammad Umer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To earn your first income with AI tools in Pakistan: pick one skill (writing, design, or video), learn a free AI tool like ChatGPT or Canva, package a simple service, create samples, offer it on Fiverr or locally, and set up Payoneer for payments. Start with free tools, avoid instant-income scams, and focus on real value.

1,989   1,609 Read Article

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BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Get a Full-Time Remote Job From Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

A remote job is full-time salaried employment with a foreign company, offering stable monthly income and benefits, while freelancing means variable project-based income from multiple clients. To land a remote job from Pakistan, build in-demand skills, create a portfolio, optimize LinkedIn, apply through vetted platforms like Toptal, Turing, and remote-first companies, and register with SECP/FBR for taxes.

2,935   885 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+1

How to Get an eSIM in Pakistan 2026: Complete Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To get an eSIM in Pakistan, visit a Jazz, Zong, or Ufone service center with your CNIC, complete biometric verification, and receive a QR code. Then go to your phone's settings, add a cellular plan, and scan the code. Charges range from free (Jazz) to around Rs. 2,000, and an eSIM-compatible phone is required.

3,907   1,453 Read Article

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BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Land a Remote Job With a Foreign Company From Pakistan

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To land a remote job with a foreign company from Pakistan, build a strong portfolio, target remote-first companies (GitLab, Automattic, Zapier) and vetted platforms (Toptal, Turing, Deel), apply as a contractor, prepare for time-zone overlap, and get paid via Payoneer, Wise, or Deel. A degree is rarely required, skills and portfolio matter most.

2,060   1,380 Read Article

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CPKXHow-To / Tutorials+2

How to Monetize Facebook in Pakistan 2026: Full Guide

Syed - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Yes, Facebook monetization is available in Pakistan. Creators can earn through the Facebook Content Monetization Program (in-stream ads, Reels), Facebook Stars, fan subscriptions, and branded content. In-stream ads typically require 5,000-10,000 followers and 60,000-600,000 watch minutes in 60 days. Payouts reach Pakistani creators via Payoneer or bank transfer.

6,781   1,866 Read Article

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TechnologyCPKX+3

How to Register as a Freelancer With PSEB (2026 Guide)

Syed - Connected Pakistan

To register as a freelancer with PSEB, visit the official PSEB portal, select freelancer registration, create an account, and submit your CNIC, NTN, and proof of foreign income. Pay the registration fee (around PKR 500 per year for freelancers). Once verified, you receive a PSEB certificate, and your IT export tax drops from 1% to 0.25%.

2,424   1,005 Read Article

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EducationBusinessCP+4

How to Start an Amazon Business From Pakistan in 2026

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

Yes, Pakistanis can sell on Amazon. Pakistan is on Amazon's approved seller list, so you can register using Pakistani documents. You receive payments through Payoneer, then withdraw to a local bank in rupees. Realistic startup budgets for private label range from $3,000 to $8,000, and beginners should treat it as a real business, not a shortcut.

3,379   942 Read Article

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BusinessTechnologyCP+2

How to Start Selling Online in Pakistan 2026: A Beginner's Guide

Syed Asfer - Connected Pakistan · CP News Desk

To start selling online in Pakistan, choose a platform (Daraz for instant reach, Shopify/WooCommerce for your own brand, or Facebook/Instagram/WhatsApp for social selling), pick a product with real demand, set up payments via JazzCash, easypaisa, or cash-on-delivery, arrange delivery through a courier, and list with quality photos. Pakistan's e-commerce market exceeds PKR 1.2 trillion in 2026.

1,949   948 Read Article