FBR defends iPhone tax. In a recent hearing before the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance. FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial defend Rs. 150,000 tax being levied on imported iPhone’s. A move that has sparked public backlash over rising smartphone costs.
The majority of mobile phones used in Pakistan. Roughly 95% are now manufactured locally. Citing recent figures by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). He added that the tax affects only imported premium devices, so “the problem is entirely with high-end phones.
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Regarding the Rs. 150,000 levy on new iPhone models. Langrial questioned why buyers who can afford such expensive devices should avoid paying applicable taxes. He also assured the committee that a full report detailing the mobile phones import-tax regime would be submitted by March 2026. A move expected to inform potential adjustments in the next fiscal budget.
Still, many lawmakers remain unconvinced. Members of the committee argued that smartphones today are no longer luxury items. But tools essential for daily life, work. They urged FBR to reconsider and rationalize the taxes, warning that the heavy levies are pushing even mid-range phones beyond the reach of many Pakistanis. As things stand, while FBR maintains that the tax is justifiable. Arguing it targets only a small segment of high-end importers. Lawmakers have demanded concrete reform before the next budget session.