50 Million Gamers Expected to Generate Over $8.7 Million for Pakistan
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- February 7, 2025
- 4:15 pm
- 99
- Sports
Pakistan’s Esports industry is growing fast. A young population, better internet access, and a passionate gaming community are fueling this growth. By 2026, Pakistan will have 50.9 million gamers, according to the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB).
The industry is expected to generate $5.2 million in revenue in 2024. With a 10.71% annual growth rate, it will reach $8.7 million by 2029.
Pakistan’s Rise in the Global Esports Scene
Esports is now a billion-dollar industry worldwide. In 2021, Pakistan officially recognized Esports through the E-Pak initiative. This program supports game developers, professional players, and major gaming events.
With government support, Esports in Pakistan has gained global attention. Around 36 million Pakistanis actively play video games, making up 16% of the population. Many professional players are competing in international tournaments.
Pakistan is among the 30 to 40 countries that officially recognize Esports. This recognition gives professional players the same status as traditional athletes, including visa benefits and government support.
Growth of Esports in Pakistan
Mobile gaming is the main driver of Esports growth. Affordable smartphones and better internet have made gaming accessible to millions. Many players now join Play-to-Earn (P2E) games, allowing them to trade virtual assets and earn rewards. Blockchain technology and NFTs are also creating new income opportunities.
The Pakistan Esports Federation and other organizations are promoting competitive gaming. The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication has launched training programs to help players improve their skills.
Schools are also embracing Esports. In 2023, Beaconhouse School partnered with Raptr and IGN to organize a national EA FC 24 tournament. Over 1,000 students from four cities participated.
Pakistan’s Achievements in Global Esports
Pakistani gamers are making a name for themselves. In the Tekken World Tour (TWT) Global Rankings 2023,
- Arslan Ash ranked No. 1 worldwide
- Atif Butt ranked No. 6
- Seven Pakistani players made it to the Global Top 50
The trend continued in 2024. Six Pakistani players ranked among the best, including Arslan Ash (No. 2) and Atif Butt (No. 3).
Major Esports Tournaments in Pakistan
Pakistan is hosting more Esports events each year. Some key tournaments include:
- Pak-China Esports Friendship Cup – Strengthening international ties.
- Dew Gamers Arena – Sponsored by Mountain Dew, offering big prize pools.
- HBL Esports Tournaments (2024) – Organized by Raptr Games and IGN, featuring FIFA 24, Valorant, and Tekken 8.
- Lahore Esports Festival – Showcased top games like CS:GO, Valorant, and FIFA.
These events are creating more opportunities for local players.
Esports at a Global Level
The Esports industry is growing worldwide.
- In 2024, it will generate $5 billion in revenue.
- By 2033, the industry could grow to $641.39 billion.
- Over 500 million people watch Esports through platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming.
Major tournaments like The International, League of Legends World Championship, and Fortnite World Cup attract millions of viewers. Pakistan’s gaming industry is set to play a bigger role in this global expansion.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s Esports industry is booming. With 50 million gamers, rising revenue, and government support, the country is becoming a major player in competitive gaming. As technology improves, Pakistani gamers will have more opportunities to shine on the global stage.
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