Good News for Overseas Pakistanis Bringing Mobile Phones from Abroad
A major development has emerged for overseas Pakistanis and consumers bringing mobile phones into Pakistan, as the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat has recommended an immediate reduction in taxes imposed on imported mobile phones.
The committee reviewed the taxation and valuation mechanism for imported mobile phones during a meeting chaired by Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan. Members discussed the high taxes imposed on imported devices and called for a fairer and more effective mechanism.
The committee directed Customs authorities to develop an efficient and transparent mechanism for determining taxes on imported mobile phones. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Tariff Commission were also asked to provide detailed reports on the current tax rates applicable to mobile phones.
During the briefing, FBR officials informed the committee that the authority to impose or abolish taxes on any product rests with Parliament.
Meanwhile, officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) told the committee that 35 companies are currently manufacturing smartphones locally in Pakistan.
Senators expressed strong concerns over the existing taxation policy. Senator Abdul Qadir said serious consideration should be given to whether mobile phones should be taxed at all, particularly given their importance in everyday life and digital services.
Senator Sadia Abbasi criticized what she described as excessive taxation, saying the government should facilitate businesses and the public instead of imposing unnecessary financial burdens.
Senator Dilawar Khan also pointed out that Pakistan’s trade and economic policies are often not developed on a long-term basis, which can create uncertainty for businesses and consumers.
During the meeting, Cabinet Secretary Kamran Ali also opposed the imposition of sales tax on mobile phones. He emphasized that digital payments are bringing significant changes to the country’s economic system, making it important to ensure easier access to technology and mobile devices for ordinary citizens.
The committee’s recommendation for an immediate reduction in taxes could provide relief to consumers, particularly overseas Pakistanis who bring mobile phones into the country.
However, the final decision regarding any reduction or change in taxation will depend on the relevant government authorities and Parliament.
