Govt Considering Relief in PTA Mobile Phone Taxes for Overseas Pakistanis

Government Reviewing PTA Tax Relief Proposal

The federal government is reviewing proposals to reduce PTA mobile phone taxes for overseas Pakistanis, according to Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry. He shared the update during a Senate session on Thursday while responding to questions raised during the Question Hour.

Govt Considering Relief in PTA Mobile Phone Taxes for Overseas Pakistanis

Overseas Pakistanis Raise Concerns

The issue was highlighted by Abid Sher Ali, who asked the government about possible relief for overseas Pakistanis bringing mobile phones into the country. In response, the minister said the demand for easing PTA taxes has been repeatedly raised during overseas Pakistani conventions held in Pakistan.

Imported Phones Work for Limited Time

Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry explained that mobile phones brought from abroad currently remain active for only a short period. After a few weeks, services are suspended unless users pay the required PTA registration tax.

Different Tax Rates for Different Models

The minister added that different mobile phone models are subject to different tax rates. However, the government is now seriously considering measures to reduce the tax burden on overseas Pakistanis.

Budget 2026-27 Review Underway

The development comes weeks after the National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance directed the Federal Board of Revenue and the Tax Policy Unit to review duties and taxes on imported mobile phones for the upcoming 2026-27 federal budget.

Possible Relief for Overseas Users

If the proposal gets approval, overseas Pakistanis may soon receive significant relief on PTA taxes. The move could make it easier to use imported smartphones in Pakistan without paying heavy registration charges.