Used imported phone prices likely to fall as FBR revises valuation rates

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The Federal Board of Revenue's (FBR) Directorate General of Customs Valuation Department has lowered assessment rates for used and old mobile phones imported commercially.

The revised values were announced through Valuation Ruling No. 2035 of 2026, effective from January 16, 2026. Officials said the change reflects a drop in international prices of older smartphones, especially iPhones, as they near the end of their commercial lifecycle. The adjustment is intended to align customs valuation with market rates and pass benefits to buyers through lower duties and potentially reduced retail prices.

The ruling covers 62 models across Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus, either through revised values or first-time valuation. While iPhone values saw significant reductions, rates for Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus largely remained unchanged.

The government applies multiple charges on mobile phones, including a flat fee per device, sales tax, withholding tax, handset levy, and regulatory duties, all calculated based on the assessed value. Compared to 2024, used iPhones saw steep cuts ranging from 32% to 81%. For example, the iPhone 12 Pro dropped to $155 from $280, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max was reduced to $215 from $340. Other models like the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max also saw major reductions.

New assessment values were also set for newer iPhones, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max at $460, iPhone 15 Pro at $390, and iPhone 15 at $310. For Samsung, the Galaxy S23 Ultra was assessed at $255, with other models priced at steady levels. Google Pixel and OnePlus devices were fixed at values such as Pixel 9 Pro XL at $260 and OnePlus 12 at $184.

• iPhone 12 Pro: $155 (down from $280)
• iPhone 12 Pro Max: $215 (down from $340)
• iPhone 13: $170 (down from $280)
• iPhone 13 Pro Max: $295 (down from $430)

Newer iPhone models were also valued for the first time, such as:

• iPhone 15 Pro Max: $460
• iPhone 15 Pro: $390
• iPhone 15: $310
   

The ruling applies to used phones imported commercially without packaging or accessories, regardless of their condition. Devices must have been activated at least six months before export, and importers must declare the activation period for verification. For models not listed in the ruling, importers should determine values under the relevant sections of the Customs Act.