Used imported mobile phones are set to become more expensive in Pakistan after the government raised their customs value under a new valuation order. The decision affects 62 models of well-known brands and is expected to significantly increase import costs.
The Karachi Customs Valuation Directorate has issued a new order revising the customs value of old and used mobile phones, according to FBR sources and official documents cited in the report.
With the new valuation in place, 62 mobile phone models from various famous companies have become costlier. Sources said the change is likely to cause a significant increase in the overall cost of importing second-hand mobile phones.
New law applies to all used mobile phones
According to the document, the new law will apply to all used mobile phones being imported. It also makes clear that the physical condition of the handset will not matter for valuation purposes.
That means whether a phone is slightly used or heavily worn, the revised customs value framework will still apply in the same way. This is expected to directly affect importers dealing in older handsets across multiple price segments.
Activation history mandatory for imported phones
The document states that imported mobile phones must have been activated at least six months earlier. Importers will also be required to provide details of the phone’s activation history.
This new condition adds another layer of compliance for importers. It suggests customs authorities want clearer documentation before allowing used devices into the local market under the revised regime.
Officials said the earlier valuation order has been terminated. In its place, a new order carrying rolling number 2070 has now been implemented.
The revised prices, according to the document, have been set on the basis of current market trends and import data. Authorities appear to have used those benchmarks to recalculate customs values for used and old imported phones.
Traders reject increase in duty
The decision has drawn strong criticism from the market. Karachi Electronics Dealers Association President Rizwan Irfan rejected the increase in duty on used mobile phones and demanded that the government restore the previous duty structure.
He said duty on used imported phones should be kept to a minimum so mobile devices remain within reach of the middle class. According to him, the latest increase will make phones more expensive for ordinary buyers while benefiting larger companies.
Middle class will suffer, smuggling may rise
Rizwan Irfan said the government has increased duty on used mobile phones by at least $25. He warned that the move would hurt middle-income consumers the most, especially those who rely on affordable second-hand devices.
He also argued that increasing duty on used mobiles could encourage smuggling. In his view, higher import costs may push more trade into undocumented channels instead of supporting the legal market.
