Ombudsman intervention allows 60 days time for registration of mobile phone

Barrister Muhammad Muzamil, an overseas Pakistani lodged a complaint against the tax and customs duty imposed on bringing a mobile phone for personal use. Initially, FBR had exempted tax/duty for one mobile phone but this exemption was taken back w.e.f 1st July, 2019. Overseas Pakistanis visiting Pakistan for a short period have to face great difficulties as the PTA disconnects the cellular facility to such customers who fail to register the said mobile phone. An inquiry was conducted in the matter and report was called from FBR & PTA for comments. The PTA intimated that the FBR had withdrawn exemption of tax on registration of mobile device. However, PTA has now permitted to an individual to use the imported phone device on local network for 60 days without registration and if the said device is not registered within 60 days, it is blocked. Due to this facility the grievance of the overseas Pakistanis has been redressed.