The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has indicated that smartphone prices in Pakistan could decrease in 2026, provided the government revises the current tax policy on mobile devices.
Smartphones No Longer a Luxury
According to PTA officials, heavy duties and taxes have pushed modern smartphones out of reach for the average consumer. The authority emphasized that mobile phones are no longer a luxury item but a basic necessity for education, online businesses, digital banking, freelancing, and access to essential online services.
PTA Recommends Tax Relief
The PTA has formally recommended tax relaxation to the government, stating that reduced duties would allow wider public access to modern technology. Officials believe that easing taxes will support digital inclusion and accelerate Pakistan’s transition toward a digital economy.
Overseas Pakistanis Face Complaints
A major concern highlighted by the PTA is the issue faced by overseas Pakistanis, who often encounter high taxes during mobile phone registration at airports upon returning to Pakistan. The authority has received numerous public complaints regarding this matter.
Pakistan Has Higher Mobile Prices Than Region
PTA officials noted that smartphone prices in Pakistan are significantly higher than in neighboring countries, primarily due to excessive taxation. This price gap has contributed to a rise in illegal phones and smuggling.
Benefits of Reducing Taxes
The authority believes that lowering taxes will:
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Encourage legal imports
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Increase market competition
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Help control smuggling and grey markets
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Potentially increase government revenue in the long term
Public Expectations Rising
With growing public concern over unaffordable mobile phones, many consumers are hopeful that tax relief measures could bring meaningful price reductions, making smartphones accessible to a larger segment of the population in 2026.
