The government is considering a new instalment-based payment system for taxes on imported mobile phones, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on consumers and simplifying the device registration process. The proposal focuses on making PTA approval and customs duty payments more affordable by allowing users to spread the cost over a period of time instead of paying a large amount upfront.
At present, many mobile users delay or avoid registering their imported devices due to the high one-time taxes imposed at the time of registration. Officials believe that introducing a monthly instalment option could significantly improve compliance, as it would provide a more practical and accessible solution for users who struggle with lump-sum payments. The initiative is also expected to reduce the number of unregistered devices being used in the country.
If approved, the policy could play a major role in promoting digital accessibility by making smartphones easier to own and register legally. Industry experts suggest that the instalment facility may encourage more consumers to purchase imported devices without the fear of heavy immediate taxation. At the same time, the government is likely to benefit through improved tax collection and stronger enforcement of telecom regulations, making the system more efficient and consumer-friendly overall.
