Govt expands Roshan Digital Account to allow foreign nationals, companies to invest

The government has decided to expand the scope of the Roshan Digital Account (RDA), allowing foreign nationals, companies, and institutional investors to invest through the platform.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on Friday, the expanded framework will enable these new participants to invest in RDAs, government securities, and Naya Pakistan Certificates.

The move is aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s links with global financial markets and promoting foreign investment through a streamlined digital platform.

Pakistan’s overseas community, comprising approximately 11 million citizens, is among the largest and most dynamic in the world. Pakistanis living in the Middle East, Europe, North America, and the Far East play a vital role in their host economies while continuing to support families and communities back home, the statement said.

“Overseas Pakistanis not only contribute to the country’s economic growth but also serve as ambassadors of Pakistan’s culture, business potential, and values globally,” it added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif further said that expanding the RDA to include foreign nationals, companies, and institutional investors would further strengthen Pakistan’s position as an attractive investment destination and enhance its integration into global financial markets.

The finance minister also stated that, through ongoing reforms, a robust digital infrastructure, and expanded financial facilities, Pakistan is offering a transparent, secure, and investor-friendly environment. He urged global investors to take advantage of emerging opportunities and become part of Pakistan’s economic future.

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According to the State Bank of Pakistan, remittances rose to $38.3 billion in fiscal year 2025, marking a 26.6% increase from the previous year. They are projected to reach $42 billion in the current fiscal year.

The statement noted that this performance reflects the confidence of overseas Pakistanis and their continued support for the country’s economic development.

Pakistan ranks fifth globally and second in South Asia in remittance receipts, with remittances remaining a key factor in maintaining the stability of the country’s external accounts.

SBP foreign exchange reserves currently stand at around $16.3 billion, with total reserves nearing $21.6 billion.

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The RDA scheme was launched on September 10, 2020, under the slogan “Close by, even from afar,” to connect overseas Pakistanis with banking and investment opportunities without requiring their physical presence in the country.

Through the RDA, non-resident Pakistanis can open bank accounts, invest in government securities and Naya Pakistan Certificates, participate in the Pakistan Stock Exchange and mutual funds, and access a range of digital banking services.

Over the past five and a half years, the initiative has seen significant success. By the end of February this year, more than 900,000 accounts had been opened, with total investments exceeding $12 billion.