The Federal Board of Revenue has revised customs values for old and used mobile phones imported into Pakistan. The decision is expected to significantly reduce the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s tax burden and improve smartphone affordability.
The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has updated prices for 62 used smartphone models across four major brands: Apple, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus.
Officials based the new valuations on international resale prices and realistic depreciation trends. The move replaces outdated benchmarks that often triggered disputes at import terminals.
Apple devices, which dominate Pakistan’s used-phone market, saw the steepest reductions. Customs values for iPhones dropped between 32% and 89%, depending on model and condition.
Lower Values for Popular iPhones
The revised list places used iPhone values closer to global market rates. Examples include:
- iPhone 13 Pro Max: reduced by 46%, from $450 to $290
- iPhone 13 Pro: reduced by 60%, from $360 to $225
- iPhone 12 Pro: reduced by 81%, from $280 to $155
These reductions directly lower PTA taxes. Officials say even newer used models, including the iPhone 15 series, will now carry total costs that better match international prices.
Authorities introduced the change to address long-standing issues at ports, including valuation disputes and clearance delays. Importers often faced higher costs due to inflated assessed values.
The revised system aims to simplify customs processing and reduce friction between traders and regulators. Officials say the policy supports broader economic and digital inclusion. Affordable smartphones remain critical for daily life and income generation.
Lower prices will benefit:
- Students attending online classes
- Freelancers and gig workers
- Low-income households accessing banking and digital services
The government views the decision as an investment in long-term productivity rather than short-term revenue. Officials believe higher smartphone penetration will expand digital participation, improve labour efficiency, and strengthen the formal economy.
Authorities plan to assess the policy’s success through indicators such as device adoption, digital usage, and economic activity in the coming months.
The revised customs valuation marks a decisive move toward aligning policy with market realities. By easing PTA taxes and streamlining import procedures, the government aims to put essential technology within reach of millions of Pakistanis.
