KARACHI: Karachi Electronic Market on Monday protested against levy of 100 percent duty and taxes on used imported phones.
The levy has froze all trading activities at the mobile market, said Muhammad Rizwan, President, Electronic Market.
The market demanded the government of withdrawing mandatory requirement of approval from Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Rizwan said that revenue had not been increased with the PTA condition.
The protesters hold placard and demanded that curbs on used mobile phones would increased unemployment.
Traders said the heavy taxes and duties on used imported mobile phones had significantly reduced consumer purchasing power and negatively impacted business activities in electronic markets. They argued that excessive taxation encourages smuggling and undocumented trade instead of generating sustainable revenue for the government.
Market representatives urged authorities to review the taxation structure and introduce balanced policies to support legitimate businesses and protect employment opportunities linked to the mobile phone trade. They further stated that thousands of small traders, shopkeepers, and technicians associated with the sector were facing financial difficulties due to declining sales.
Protesters also demanded easier PTA approval procedures to facilitate consumers and reduce unnecessary hurdles in the import and registration process of mobile devices. They warned that continued restrictions could further damage the already struggling electronics market.
