The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has issued a new ruling to revise how taxes are calculated. It focuses on old and used mobile phones imported in commercial quantities without packaging or accessories.
According to Valuation Ruling No 2035 of 2026, customs values have been fixed for 62 models. These include devices from major brands like Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel and OnePlus.
The new values will be used to calculate duties and taxes at the time of import. This means importers will now pay according to the updated rates set by authorities.
Officials say the move aims to bring more clarity and consistency in valuation. It also targets better regulation of the growing used mobile phone market.
The decision could directly influence the final price of used smartphones in Pakistan. Buyers and sellers are now closely watching how the market reacts.
The Directorate General of Customs Valuation in Karachi has issued new customs values for 62 brands of used mobile phones. These phones are imported in commercial quantities without packing or accessories. The new rules could impact prices of popular brands and change the market.
Read more: ‘PTA taxes’ on mobiles may reduce by 50% - Will smartphone prices finally drop?
Under the new policy, all used mobile phones must have been activated at least six months before export to Pakistan. Importers must declare this activation period, which will be checked by customs officers.
If a phone model is not listed in the ruling but is imported commercially, special rules will apply. Authorities will assess its value under relevant sections of the Customs Act 1969.
Earlier, the valuation was determined under a previous ruling, which was later challenged by importers. The earlier decision was cancelled after review, leading to fresh instructions for reassessment.
Officials accepted that proper data of similar goods was not fully considered before. They also noted that international auction prices were ignored in some cases.
Authorities then ordered a fresh review after giving all stakeholders a chance to present their views. Until the new ruling was finalized, the old system was temporarily followed.
A detailed meeting was held where stakeholders shared their concerns and opinions. They were asked to provide proof like auction price data, but no strong documents were submitted.
For the new valuation, officials studied 90 days of import data and conducted market research. They followed proper legal procedures to finalize updated prices.
Read more: ID card renewal: PTA warns millions of mobile users about SIM blockage
After adjusting profit margins, the final C and F values were set under the law. This step completes the revised system for used mobile phone imports.
This decision may lower prices of some imported phones. But full relief depends on market behavior. If enforcement stays strict, transparency may improve. However, lack of data from importers could affect accuracy.
The updated valuation applies to following multiple models from major brands including Apple, Sharp, Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus:
