In a recent and unexpected development, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially denied any decisions to remove taxes on imported mobile phones, directly countering rampant online rumors suggesting otherwise.

Contents
Key Points from PTA’s Clarification:
- No Official Tax Removal: The PTA has categorically stated that there has been no formal decision to abolish taxes on imported mobile phones in Pakistan. This dispels widespread online speculation and misinformation.
- Exemption for Returning Pakistanis: While returning Pakistani citizens will continue to benefit from tax exemptions on their mobile devices, this provision does not extend to general imports. The PTA highlighted that this exemption is a longstanding policy aimed at facilitating returning expatriates.
- Temporary Registration Facility: Non-PTA registered mobile users can temporarily register their devices by restarting them with a SIM card inserted. However, this is strictly a provisional measure and does not indicate a broader policy change regarding the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) taxes on handset registration.
- Role of PTA and FBR: The PTA’s role remains focused on verifying the technical standards of mobile devices for registration through the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS). The responsibility for the implementation and collection of taxes on mobile devices lies solely with the FBR.
- Combatting Misinformation: In an effort to curb the spread of false information, the PTA has urged citizens to rely on official sources for updates. It strongly advises the public against disseminating unverified reports and to consult the FBR directly for accurate information regarding mobile device taxes.
Background on Tax-Free Registration:
Last year, the government introduced a significant facility allowing overseas Pakistanis to register their handsets tax-free for up to 120 days during each visit. This initiative was designed to ease the registration process for returning expatriates, underscoring the government’s commitment to facilitating the needs of overseas Pakistanis.
The PTA’s recent statement serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of verifying news through official channels. The agency continues to play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of mobile device registration and ensuring compliance with technical standards, while the FBR remains responsible for tax-related matters.
Conclusion:
This clarification from the PTA reaffirms the current tax policies on imported mobile phones and highlights the need for public vigilance against misinformation. For any updates regarding mobile device taxes, individuals are encouraged to seek information directly from the FBR, ensuring they have accurate and reliable data.
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