Islamabad

Pakistan has introduced revised PTA tax rates on the iPhone 14 series, following updated customs valuations by the Federal Board of Revenue, a move likely to increase the overall cost of imported devices.

Higher Valuation, Higher Taxes

Under the new framework, customs values for used iPhone 14 models have been adjusted upward, directly impacting the PTA registration tax applied through the DIRBS system.

According to updated benchmarks:

• iPhone 14 valued around $210
• iPhone 14 Pro at $290
• iPhone 14 Pro Max at $360+

These revised valuations form the basis for calculating taxes, meaning higher declared values translate into increased PTA duties.

Impact on Consumers

Industry experts warn that the changes will:

• Push up prices of imported and used iPhones
• Increase the cost of PTA approval for non-registered devices
• Further widen the price gap between PTA-approved and non-PTA phones

Estimates suggest PTA taxes on iPhone 14 models already range above Rs100,000 for premium variants, depending on registration method and exchange rates.

Market Reaction

Traders and retailers say the revision could slow down demand in the grey market, while also raising resale prices of already registered devices.

The move comes as part of broader efforts by authorities to align import valuations with global market prices and improve revenue collection from smartphone imports.

Ongoing Trend

Pakistan has frequently revised customs values for smartphones in recent months, affecting brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google, as regulators attempt to balance tax revenue with market realities.

Analysts say while the policy may boost government income, it risks making flagship smartphones increasingly unaffordable for average consumers.