Authorities in Pakistan are evaluating proposals to attract billions of dollars held overseas by Pakistanis, including potential reforms to allow broader investment in the Roshan Digital Account.
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Sources indicate that Pakistanis currently hold approximately $20 billion in wealth across regions such as the Middle East and Europe. The government is exploring options to permit any citizen—not just overseas Pakistanis—to invest in the Roshan Digital Account, potentially opening the door for foreign companies and residents of Pakistan to participate.
During the first eight months of the current fiscal year, $1.076 billion was invested in New Pakistan Certificates. Officials are keen to facilitate the transfer of external wealth amid ongoing regional tensions, noting that wealth declared under the 2018 and 2019 amnesty programs was largely not repatriated.
FBR sources report that 82,889 individuals submitted declarations under these previous schemes, generating Rs19.4 billion in tax revenue for the government. Additional proposals under consideration include offering overseas Pakistanis tax concessions in the real estate sector, with suggestions of a 10% tax on property purchases by non-resident Pakistanis.
The move is aimed at incentivizing the inflow of external funds, bolstering foreign reserves, and stimulating economic growth through strategic policy adjustments.
