The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) continues to levy hefty taxes on high-end smartphones, with Apple’s iPhone series among the most affected. For May 2025, updated tax figures show that PTA taxes on the newly launched iPhone 16 series begin at over Rs107,000 and can go up to Rs176,000 depending on the model and user registration method.
“High-end devices like Apple iPhone attract massive taxes, with taxes on the latest iPhone 16 starting over 1lac, going all the way to Rs170k.”
These high taxation rates stem from PTA’s policy designed to curb imports and promote local manufacturing. However, many experts argue that this approach could hinder smartphone penetration and adversely impact the overall tech ecosystem in Pakistan.
“Pakistan’s telecom authority (PTA) rolled out aggressive taxation in previous years, causing smartphone prices to surge and making them unaffordable for many consumers. While government says the move aims to regulate imports and boost local industry, experts warn it could slow smartphone adoption and hurt the tech market.”
The iPhone 16 lineup remains among the most expensive smartphone options in the country. Fortunately, some relief has arrived for buyers, as local distributors have reduced prices slightly and PTA tax brackets have been adjusted.
“iPhone 16 also remains among expensive devices in Pakistan but lately local distributors cuts prices in slight relief for masses. The tax structure for iPhone 16 devices has also been adjusted, with taxes varying depending on whether the user holds a passport or a local ID card.”
iPhone 16 PTA Tax in Pakistan – May 2025
Models | Tax on Passport | Tax on ID Card |
---|
iPhone 16 | Rs107,000 | Rs130,500 |
iPhone 16 Plus | Rs113,000 | Rs137,000 |
iPhone 16 Pro | Rs135,500 | Rs161,500 |
iPhone 16 Pro Max | Rs148,500 | Rs176,000 |
Latest iPhone 15 PTA Tax – May 2025
Models | Tax on Passport | Tax on CNIC |
---|
iPhone 15 Pro Max | Rs148,500 | Rs176,000 |
iPhone 15 Pro | Rs135,300 | Rs161,480 |
iPhone 15 Plus | Rs113,075 | Rs137,033 |
iPhone 15 | Rs107,325 | Rs130,708 |
“Despite the price cuts, iPhones in Pakistan still remain on the expensive side compared to global markets. However, the reduced taxes and subsequent price drop have made the latest Apple smartphones more accessible to Pakistani tech enthusiasts.”
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