Concerns over mobile phone taxation have resurfaced after a member of the National Assembly criticized the federal budget for not providing relief to consumers. MNA Qasim Gillani has expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to maintain existing taxes and duties on mobile phones.
According to Gillani, the latest budget failed to address several key issues related to mobile phone taxation. He stated that the government did not reduce the PTA Tax or remove the regulatory duty imposed on imported mobile phones. He also pointed out that other charges affecting consumers remain unchanged.
The lawmaker said the decision has placed an additional burden on mobile phone users across the country. He noted that the budget did not eliminate the non-adjustable withholding tax or the mobile levy. These taxes continue to increase the overall cost of owning and registering mobile devices in Pakistan.
Gillani announced that he plans to move an amendment to the Finance Bill. The proposed amendment will seek changes to the current taxation structure on mobile phones. He said the issue would also be raised again before the relevant parliamentary committee for further discussion.
The MNA emphasized that reducing the PTA Tax and other duties is important for making mobile phones more affordable. He argued that lower taxes could encourage greater access to digital services and mobile connectivity, especially for low-income users.
Mobile phone taxes have remained a topic of debate in recent years. Many consumers and industry stakeholders have called for a review of the existing tax regime. They believe that high duties and taxes increase the cost of smartphones and limit access to modern technology.
Gillani reiterated that the government missed an opportunity to provide meaningful relief in the new budget. He stressed that the current tax structure continues to place financial pressure on consumers who rely on mobile devices for communication, education, and business activities.
While no changes have been approved so far, discussions on the matter are expected to continue during the budget process. The proposed amendment could reopen debate on mobile phone taxation and related duties.
In other news read more about New PTA Taxes Increased for iPhone 14 Series in Pakistan
The future of the PTA Tax and other mobile-related charges will likely depend on parliamentary discussions and the government’s willingness to revise its current policies. For now, existing taxes and duties on mobile phones remain unchanged under the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
