ISLAMABAD: Lawmaker Kasim Gillani has described recent changes in mobile phone taxation and registration policies as a positive development for consumers, while continuing to advocate for the complete removal of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) tax.
Gillani emphasized that the issue has been a longstanding public concern and has been actively discussed in parliamentary circles over several months. He personally contributed to amendments related to the PTA tax presented to the finance committee since December.
Although the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) recent measures do not fully meet public expectations, Gillani acknowledged them as incremental progress. He stated, “While the FBR’s latest step is not sufficient, it still represents a move forward that we welcome.”
Highlighting specific relief efforts, Gillani noted a 20 percent reduction in regulatory duty on imported mobile phones, with assurances of further cuts planned for the next year. He also pointed out that customs duties on mid-range smartphones, particularly those priced between $200 and $300, have been lowered, providing additional relief to consumers.
Despite these improvements, Gillani reiterated the ultimate goal of permanently abolishing the PTA tax. “Our continued objective is the complete and permanent elimination of the PTA tax,” he affirmed.
In a significant development discussed during a recent finance committee meeting, an installment-based payment system for PTA taxes was proposed. This provision, included in the finance bill, will enable the PTA and FBR to collaboratively design a plan allowing consumers to pay taxes in monthly installments rather than large lump sums.
Gillani explained that this approach aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers who otherwise face payments of Rs100,000, Rs150,000, or Rs200,000 at once. “The goal is to enable people to pay the PTA tax in manageable monthly installments,” he said.
He further expressed optimism that the installment facility would encourage higher mobile phone registration rates and reduce the financial strain on consumers. “This is a welcome step as it will facilitate more registrations and ease the stress caused by hefty upfront payments,” Gillani concluded.
