Pakistan RDA inflows reach USD 14.157 billion as monthly receipts decline

Pakistan's Roshan Digital Account (RDA) scheme has attracted cumulative inflows of USD 14.157 billion since its launch in September 2020, with the number of accounts reaching 975,602 by September 2026, according to State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data.

The number of accounts increased from 966,144 in August, reflecting continued participation in the initiative. However, monthly inflows declined to USD 251 million in September from USD 259 million in August.

How have monthly RDA inflows changed?

Monthly inflows have declined every month since April, when receipts stood at USD 321 million. The amount fell to USD 312 million in May, USD 306 million in June, USD 282 million in July, USD 259 million in August and USD 251 million in September, marking five consecutive monthly decreases.

How much money remains invested through RDA?

Of the cumulative inflows, USD 2.146 billion had been repatriated while USD 8.937 billion had been utilized locally by September, according to SBP data.

The central bank reported a combined repatriated and locally utilized amount of USD 11.084 billion, leaving a net repatriable liability of USD 3.073 billion.

The outstanding amount comprised USD 1.375 billion in Islamic Naya Pakistan Certificates, USD 740 million in conventional certificates, USD 153 million in equities, USD 725 million in account balances and USD 80 million in other liabilities.

Separately, Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves held by the central bank stood at USD 21.52 billion as of October 23. The SBP expects reserves to increase to USD 23 billion by the end of December 2026 and USD 25 billion by June 2027.

How has the RDA scheme expanded?

Launched in September 2020, the RDA scheme allows overseas Pakistanis to open bank accounts remotely and access multi-currency banking services, investment products and financing facilities. The initiative has emerged as an important channel for attracting foreign exchange and supporting the country's external account.

In March 2026, the central bank expanded the scheme to include non-resident foreign individuals and entities, including foreign companies and institutional investors.

Resident Pakistanis holding foreign assets declared to the Federal Board of Revenue are also eligible for foreign-currency accounts under separate requirements.

In June, the SBP widened investment options under the Naya Pakistan Certificates by introducing Saudi riyal and UAE dirham denominations.

The additional currencies provide expatriates in Gulf countries with investment options in their local currencies, alongside existing options in Pakistani rupees, US dollars, British pounds and euros.