Pakistan Mobile Manufacturers Seek Ban on Used Mobile Phone Imports

The Pakistan Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association (PMPMA) has called on the government to impose a complete ban on the import of used mobile phones, citing economic losses, tax evasion, and security concerns.

According to the association, Pakistan imported 307,593 used mobile phones between January and May 2026, with a total value exceeding $54.9 million.

In a statement, the association warned that the import of second-hand and undocumented mobile phones encourages tax evasion, under-invoicing, and illegal trade, resulting in significant revenue losses for the government.

The association also highlighted consumer concerns, stating that refurbished phones are often sold as new devices, creating warranty and durability issues for buyers.

Furthermore, it noted that altered or cloned IMEI numbers on used phones can facilitate smuggling, fraud, cybercrime, and other illegal activities, making investigations more difficult for law enforcement agencies.

The PMPMA urged the government to introduce a stricter regulatory framework to promote locally manufactured and PTA-approved mobile phones. It said such measures would help increase tax revenue, discourage smuggling, attract investment, and create thousands of new employment opportunities in Pakistan’s growing mobile manufacturing sector.