Pakistan has introduced stricter customs rules for the import of old and used mobile phones, bringing major changes for commercial importers. The Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi, issued revised valuation guidelines under Valuation Ruling No. 2076 of 2026. The decision affects a wide range of international smartphone brands and models.
New Customs Values Apply to Major Phone Brands
Authorities confirmed that the updated customs values cover 62 brands of used mobile phones. The list includes Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and Sharp. The ruling applies to all commercial imports, even if the devices differ in condition or grade.
Officials said the new valuation aims to create uniform pricing for imported used phones. They added that the move will reduce misreporting of device values at the time of clearance.
Six Month Activation Rule Becomes Mandatory
The government has introduced a strict condition for used mobile phone imports. All devices must show activation at least six months before export to Pakistan.
Importers must declare the activation period for every phone shipment. Customs officers will verify this information during clearance procedures. This step aims to prevent the import of recently used or misdeclared devices.
Officials said the rule will help control irregular trade practices in the mobile phone market.
Customs Officers Get Wider Assessment Powers
For mobile phone models not included in the official valuation list, customs officers will determine their value independently. They will apply Sections 25(5) and 25(6) of the Customs Act, 1969.
This gives Collectorates greater authority in handling new or unlisted smartphone models. It also ensures that valuation keeps pace with fast changing mobile technology trends.
Authorities believe this will improve enforcement and reduce gaps in valuation procedures.
Previous Valuation System Withdraw
Pakistan earlier used Valuation Ruling No. 2035 of 2026 for used mobile phone imports. However, authorities challenged the system under Section 25D of the Customs Act.
Following review, officials issued Order-in-Revision No. 05 of 2026 on April 3, 2026. This order cancelled the previous ruling and cleared the way for a revised system.
Customs officials said the old framework did not fully address valuation challenges in the used mobile phone market.
Importers Face Stricter Compliance Rules
Importers of used mobile phones will now follow tighter documentation requirements. They must provide detailed activation records for each device in shipments.
Industry experts expect longer clearance times and higher compliance costs. They also believe import prices may increase depending on model type and demand.
However, authorities argue that the changes will improve transparency in trade operations.
Market Impact Expected Across Pakistan
The used mobile phone market in Pakistan may experience pricing changes after the new ruling. Commercial importers will adjust costs based on revised customs values.Experts say the demand for second-hand smartphones remains strong in the country. Any increase in import costs could affect retail prices for consumers.
Still, officials believe the new system will help regulate the informal import sector and improve tax collection.Customs authorities continue to strengthen oversight of electronics imports. The revised valuation system aims to reduce under-invoicing and ensure fair taxation.
Officials said they will closely monitor compliance in the coming months. They expect importers to adjust quickly to the new requirements.The updated policy marks another step in Pakistan’s effort to modernize customs enforcement and improve control over used electronics imports.