iPhones just got cheaper in Pakistan: PTA slashes taxes

ISLAMABAD: Great news for phone fans in Pakistan! The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reduced taxes on a wide range of imported mobile phones, making it easier for tech enthusiasts to get their hands on popular models.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced the new tax reductions Tuesday, updating customs valuations for 62 categories of used phones from top brands like Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus. The revision, issued under Valuation Ruling No. 2035 of 2026, aligns import duties with current international prices after the previous valuation, in place for over 18 months, became outdated.

Under the new rules, duties and PTA taxes on commercially imported used phones without original packaging or accessories will now be calculated based on updated fixed values, regardless of the device’s condition. Importers must also declare the phone’s first activation date, which should be at least six months before the export to Pakistan.

For buyers, this could mean significant savings. The updated valuation sets a used iPhone 15 Pro Max at US$460, an iPhone 13 Pro at US$225, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra at US$255, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL at US$260.

Customs officials said the new valuations were determined after three months of analyzing import data, surveying the market, and consulting industry stakeholders. The changes aim to prevent undervaluation, boost revenue collection, and make the import process more transparent, all while helping consumers access popular smartphones at fairer prices.

For phone enthusiasts, this is the perfect time to explore the market for imported devices and upgrade to the latest tech without breaking the bank.