Pakistani consumers are set to receive major relief as prices of 62 mobile phone models from four leading brands are expected to decrease across the country. The price reduction follows a new decision by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), which has revised and lowered customs valuation rates on imported mobile phones.
The revised valuation applies to both new and used mobile phones imported from abroad, a move that will directly impact the final prices paid by consumers.
PTA Tax Reduced After FBR’s Decision
According to official sources, the reduction in customs valuation has resulted in a lower Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) tax on imported mobile phone sets. Since PTA tax is calculated based on the declared customs value, the new rates will make smartphones more affordable for the public.
This step is expected to particularly benefit users who rely on imported phones, including mid-range and premium devices.
Massive Cut in Customs Valuation
Under the newly issued valuation, customs value for phones of a well-known international brand has been reduced by 32 percent to as much as 89 percent, depending on the model.
FBR valuation officials explained that the previous system faced several issues, such as:
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Artificially inflated prices
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Under-invoicing practices
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Confusion in grading of used mobile phones
These problems often caused delays in customs clearance, increasing costs that were ultimately passed on to consumers.
What This Means for Consumers
Officials believe the revised valuation system will:
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Speed up customs clearance
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Reduce price manipulation
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Improve transparency in phone imports
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Lower overall mobile phone prices in the local market
Industry experts say consumers may start seeing noticeable price drops in the coming weeks, once importers pass on the reduced tax burden to retailers.
The move is being viewed as a positive development for Pakistan’s mobile phone market, especially at a time when rising inflation has made smartphones increasingly unaffordable.
