(FBR PTA Tax Hike)“A Black Friday for Tech Lovers in Pakistan.” On April 23, 2026, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) dropped a bombshell on the mobile market. Through the newly issued Valuation Ruling No. 2070 of 2026, the customs values of 62 popular mobile models have been increased by up to 175%.
At Zebialerts, we have meticulously analyzed the 2026 FBR notification. This move effectively repeals the previous January ruling (No. 2035) and targets used, refurbished, and commercially imported flagship devices. If you are planning to buy or register a phone this month, your budget is about to change significantly.
why did FBR Increase PTA Taxes Suddenly?
The Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi, stated that the previous values did not reflect the “prevailing international market trends.” In simple terms, the government wants to maximize revenue from high-end mobile imports.
The new Ruling 2070 applies to all used mobile phones imported in commercial quantities without original packaging. The most critical update is that these taxes will be enforced regardless of the phone’s physical condition or grading (A, B, or C).
The “6-Month Activation” Rule
Apart from the tax hike, FBR has introduced a strict verification policy:
- Prior Activation: All imported used phones must have been activated at least six months prior to their export to Pakistan.
- Data Verification: Customs officers will now verify the activation date. If a phone is found to be “newly activated,” it will be charged at the much higher “New Phone” tax rate.
Complete List of 62 Models & New Customs Values
We have categorized the affected brands (Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and Sharp) with their updated customs values ($).
A. Apple iPhone Series (Steady to High Increase)
iPhones have seen a steady increase, making them the most expensive devices to register in Pakistan right now.
| Model Name | New Customs Value ($) | Status |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $505 | Increased |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $472 | Increased |
| iPhone 15 Plus | $390 | Increased |
| iPhone 15 | $378 | Increased |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $360 | Stable |
| iPhone 14 Pro | $290 | Stable |
| iPhone 14 | $210 | Stable |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | $255 | Increased |
| iPhone 13 | $170 | Stable |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | $215 | Stable |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | $145 | Stable |
| iPhone 11 | $133 | New Base |
| iPhone XS Max | $95 | Stable |
| iPhone XR | $145 | Re-valued |
| iPhone X | $70 | Increased |
| iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | $73 | Updated |
| iPhone 8 Plus | $78 | Updated |
B. Samsung Galaxy Series (Major Hike)
Samsung users are facing some of the steepest tax increases, especially on the S23 and S22 series. https://fbr.gov.pk/
| Model Name | New Customs Value ($) |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | $305 (Old $255) |
| Galaxy S23 Plus | $260 (Old $160) |
| Galaxy S23 | $250 (Old $140) |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G | $260 |
| Galaxy S22 Plus 5G | $180 |
| Galaxy S22 5G | $130 |
| Galaxy S21 Plus 5G | $150 |
| Galaxy S21 5G | $110 |
| Galaxy S20 Plus | $94 |
| Galaxy S20 | $75 |
| Galaxy S10+ / S10 / S10e | $60 / $54 / $49 |
C. Google Pixel Series (The 175% Shock)
Google Pixel models have witnessed the “highest re-valuation” in FBR history. Models like the Pixel 6 and 6A have seen nearly a 194% jump.PTA Phone Registration Pakistan – Complete Step-by-Step Guide 2025
| Model Name | New Customs Value ($) |
| Google Pixel 7 Pro | $245 |
| Google Pixel 7 | $165 |
| Google Pixel 6 Pro | $155 |
| Google Pixel 6 / 6A | $350+ (Re-categorized) |
| Google Pixel 5 / 5A | Significant Increase |
D. OnePlus & Sharp Models
High-performance “enthusiast” phones are no longer budget-friendly in terms of PTA approval.
| Model Name | New Customs Value ($) |
| OnePlus 12 | $211 |
| OnePlus 12R | $176 |
| OnePlus 11 | $121 |
| OnePlus 10 Pro | $113 |
| OnePlus 10T | $90 |
| Sharp Aquos R Series | $45 – $95 (various) |
How to Calculate the Final PTA Tax?
It is important to understand that the “Customs Value” ($) is NOT the final tax. The final PTA tax is a combination of:
- Customs Duty
- Sales Tax (Ad Valorem)
- IT Duty
- Mobile Levy
Calculation Tip: For a flagship like the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the total tax often exceeds Rs. 180,000 to Rs. 210,000 depending on whether you register via Passport or CNIC.
Why Some Models are Not Listed?
If your mobile model is not among the 62 listed, don’t celebrate just yet. FBR has directed Collectorates to assess unlisted models under Sections 25(5) and 25(6) of the Customs Act, 1969. This means they will use “comparable market values,” which usually results in an even higher tax.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I pay PTA tax in installments?
- A: Yes, certain banks like Alfa (Bank Alfalah) and SilkBank offer PTA tax installments, but the FBR portal requires full upfront payment.
- Q: Does the condition of the phone matter?
- A: No. Under Ruling 2070, a “scratched” phone and a “mint condition” phone of the same model will pay the exact same tax.
- Q: What is the last date to pay under old rates?
- A: The old rates expired on April 22, 2026. All new entries are now processed under the 2070 Ruling.
Conclusion: The Future of Mobile Imports in Pakistan
The FBR PTA Tax Hike April 2026 is a clear indicator that the “Gray Market” for used flagships is being dismantled. While this might encourage local assembly, it significantly raises the entry barrier for high-tech devices.