Government Considers Launching RDA 2.0 to Support Pakistan IT Sector and Freelancers
In a significant move aimed at formalizing digital exports and boosting foreign remittances, Pakistan’s IT stakeholders have proposed the launch of Roshan Digital Account 2.0 — a revamped initiative designed specifically for the country’s growing community of freelancers and IT companies.
A Targeted Upgrade for the Digital Economy
The proposed RDA 2.0 scheme seeks to streamline financial inflows from global IT services by converting informal export earnings into documented remittances. Tailored for Pakistan’s tech ecosystem, the new platform would offer features like dollar-based interest income, retention of funds in foreign currency, and future-ready encashment options.
One of the core elements of RDA 2.0 is its automated verification system, which would authenticate beneficiaries through a centralized representative body — reducing manual checks and ensuring transparency in transactions.
The scheme is also expected to include added benefits such as debit and credit card issuance and access to digital banking services, mirroring those already available under the original Roshan Digital Account system.
Government, Industry Leaders Weigh In
The proposal was the focal point of a recent meeting held by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT). Key attendees included Federal Minister Shaza Fatima, the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and CEOs of Ignite, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA).
In addition to the RDA 2.0 proposal, the meeting addressed challenges in gathering accurate data on IT professionals and freelancers, as well as improving tracking of the country’s annual tech graduate output.
Background on RDA
Originally launched in September 2020, the Roshan Digital Account (RDA) allows overseas Pakistanis to invest and manage finances in Pakistan through a fully digital process. Offered by 15 banks — both conventional and Islamic — RDA has proven to be a strong remittance channel, recording over 831,000 accounts and attracting $10.3 billion by the end of June 2025.
The proposed RDA 2.0 builds upon this success, offering the promise of stronger integration between the global freelance economy and Pakistan’s formal financial system.
