Pakistan recorded a significant decline of 21.31 percent in mobile phone imports during the fiscal year 2024-25, despite a notable surge in the final month, official data showed on Wednesday.

According to figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), mobile phones worth $1.49 billion were imported during the July-June period, down from $1.89 billion recorded in the previous fiscal year. In terms of local currency, the total import value stood at Rs417.35 billion.

However, the latest monthly data paints a contrasting picture. In June 2025 alone, mobile phone imports surged by 49.95pc on a year-on-year basis. The PBS noted that mobile phones worth $139.4 million were brought into the country last month, compared to $92.9 million in June 2024. The rupee equivalent of June 2025 imports stood at Rs39.45 billion.

The uptick in June may be attributed to increased demand in anticipation of new models and improved clearance procedures, analysts suggest. However, the overall annual decline reflects a mix of factors including restrictions on imports, currency volatility, and reduced consumer purchasing power.

Pakistan’s mobile phone market has been under pressure in recent years due to economic challenges and tighter controls on dollar outflows. The government had previously imposed restrictions on luxury and non-essential imports to curb the widening trade deficit.

Industry experts warn that while short-term spikes in monthly imports may occur due to easing of restrictions or seasonal demand, the broader trend remains dependent on the country’s macroeconomic stability and import policy.

The telecommunications sector continues to rely heavily on imported devices, despite repeated calls for encouraging local assembly and manufacturing. Some local units have started assembling smartphones under joint ventures with foreign firms, though their market share remains limited.