Total inflows through the Roshan Digital Account (RDA) scheme have reached $10.912 billion since its launch in September 2020, according to updated figures released by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The scheme, designed to attract investment from overseas Pakistanis, continues to play a key role in stabilising the country’s external finances and supporting foreign exchange reserves during a challenging economic cycle.
The central bank’s data shows that out of the total inflows, $7.001 billion — more than 64 percent — has been utilised within Pakistan, highlighting the increasing domestic absorption of funds channeled through RDA. Meanwhile, $1.859 billion has been repatriated abroad. Combined, the repatriated and utilised funds amount to $8.86 billion, leaving around $2.052 billion as repatriable liability.
The scheme was launched to provide overseas Pakistanis with an efficient, digital platform to invest in the country’s financial instruments and property market. Its performance has exceeded initial projections, especially during periods when other sources of foreign investment remained limited. Officials note that the sustained inflows have supported the country’s external position and helped the central bank maintain its foreign reserves above $14 billion. This has contributed to exchange rate stability at a time of heightened global financial pressure.
Since its inception, annual inflows through the RDA have averaged around $2 billion. Analysts believe that these figures could further increase if Pakistan succeeds in finalising larger economic partnerships with Saudi Arabia and other strategic partners. These partnerships could help attract fresh capital from overseas Pakistanis seeking stable investment options tied to national growth initiatives.
Experts also pointed out that RDA has evolved into more than just a remittance channel. It provides a structured investment avenue, allowing non-resident Pakistanis to participate in Naya Pakistan Certificates, real estate, and other government-backed financial products. By enabling seamless transactions through digital banking channels, the initiative has modernised how expatriates engage with the domestic economy.
The inflows have had a visible impact on the country’s macroeconomic indicators. Pakistan posted its first current account surplus in a decade during FY25, supported in part by sustained RDA receipts. However, the balance shifted back to a deficit in the early months of FY26 due to increased profit and dividend repatriation. Despite this, the country successfully repaid $500 million in maturing Eurobond obligations last week, which analysts say underscores improving external account management.
Market watchers argue that continued inflows through RDA are critical for reinforcing investor confidence and providing breathing space for policymakers. A steady flow of funds from the diaspora can help Pakistan manage external repayments more effectively while offering an alternative buffer against short-term volatility in other capital flows.
The SBP has signaled that it will continue to strengthen the RDA framework, focusing on improving digital banking experiences, expanding investment options, and enhancing transparency for account holders. Financial experts view the scheme as an important tool to deepen diaspora engagement, especially at a time when the global financial environment is becoming more competitive.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updated across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.