RDA hits record $320m in April

May 10, 2026 (MLN): RDA inflows jumped to a historic USD 320 million in April, marking one of the strongest monthly performances on record, as overseas Pakistanis continued to show rising confidence in Pakistan’s financial system.

RDA inflows had already strengthened in March, rising to USD 260 million, compared to the usual monthly range of USD 180–200 million, reflecting a steady upward trend in foreign inflows through formal banking channels.

This was informed by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb yesterday during a joint press conference with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik to brief the media on the country’s economic performance, external sector developments, and the government’s measures to ensure uninterrupted petroleum supplies amid ongoing regional tensions.

The Finance Minister described the surge as a strong indicator of improving sentiment among overseas Pakistanis, calling it a significant vote of confidence in the country’s economic direction despite external challenges.

During the briefing, the Finance Minister highlighted a sharp surge in Roshan Digital Account (RDA) inflows, terming it one of the clearest indicators of strengthening overseas confidence in Pakistan’s economy.

The minister noted that despite regional uncertainty and external pressures, overseas Pakistanis continue to actively participate in Pakistan’s financial system through formal banking channels.

He added that these inflows are not only supporting external account stability but are also helping strengthen foreign exchange reserves and liquidity buffers.

The rise in RDA inflows is associated with broader improvements in economic indicators, including export growth, remittance stability, and renewed access to international capital markets.

A key concern highlighted during the briefing was the sharp increase in Pakistan’s oil import bill, which has risen by over USD 1 billion between March and April due to escalating global crude prices and geopolitical instability.

The Finance Minister cautioned that rising energy costs remain one of the most significant external pressures on the economy, directly affecting the current account balance and inflation outlook.

He stressed that while global price movements are beyond Pakistan’s control, the government is actively working to mitigate their domestic impact.

He pointed out that targeted subsidies have been introduced for vulnerable groups, including motorcyclists, public transport users, and small farmers, to cushion the burden of rising fuel costs.

These measures, he said, are being implemented in consultation with provincial governments to ensure effective relief delivery.

Despite the surge in import costs, the Finance Minister expressed confidence that Pakistan’s external position remains manageable, supported by strong remittances, improving exports, and expected foreign exchange inflows that could take reserves to around USD 15 billion by the end of June.

Speaking on the occasion, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik emphasized that Pakistan has successfully maintained uninterrupted petroleum supplies despite significant global and regional disruptions affecting energy markets and shipping routes.

He said the government, in coordination with the National Crisis Management Cell (NCMC), acted swiftly to secure fuel logistics and ensure stable supply chains across the country. Even amid heightened uncertainty in global maritime corridors, including risks in key energy transport routes, Pakistan has managed to avoid fuel shortages or distribution disruptions.

The minister acknowledged the crucial support of friendly countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, which played an important role in helping Pakistan maintain stable petroleum inflows during the challenging period.

He further stated that the government remains fully committed to protecting consumers from extreme international price volatility while ensuring uninterrupted availability of fuel nationwide.

According to him, proactive planning, diplomatic engagement, and inter-agency coordination were key factors behind the successful supply management.

Both ministers reiterated that energy security remains a core national priority, especially in the context of broader regional tensions and global market uncertainty.

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