The Government of Pakistan has decided to transform the Roshan Digital Account (RDA) into a global investment gateway by expanding its scope to include foreign nationals, companies and institutional investors, aiming to attract increased international capital inflows.
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The initiative, announced by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is part of a broader strategy to integrate Pakistan more closely with global financial markets through a secure and transparent digital banking platform.
Under the expanded framework, investors will be able to open RDA accounts and invest in government securities as well as Naya Pakistan Certificates, offering competitive returns. The move is expected to enhance investor access, diversify Pakistan’s funding base and strengthen financial market depth.
The finance minister highlighted the important role of overseas Pakistanis, noting that a diaspora of around 11 million people continues to contribute significantly to remittances and economic stability. Pakistan recorded a major milestone in FY2025, with remittances exceeding $38.3 billion, and projections suggest inflows could reach $42 billion in FY2026.
Remittances remain a key pillar supporting Pakistan’s external account and balance of payments. The country’s foreign exchange reserves stand at approximately $16.3 billion, with total reserves around $21.6 billion, reflecting relative stability in external finances.
Since its launch in September 2020 by the State Bank of Pakistan in collaboration with commercial banks, the RDA initiative has gained strong traction. More than 900,000 accounts have been opened, with cumulative inflows exceeding $12 billion by early 2026.
The government believes that expanding RDA beyond overseas Pakistanis to global investors will significantly enhance Pakistan’s appeal as an investment destination, facilitating greater foreign participation in local financial instruments and supporting long-term economic growth.
