The Ministry of Information Technology is working on the formulation of a mobile phone leasing policy as part of efforts to improve mobile phone penetration across Pakistan. Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima confirmed that consultations are currently underway with relevant stakeholders, including mobile phone operators, to evaluate different approaches related to mobile phone financing and affordability. She stated that the draft version of the policy has already been shared with mobile phone operators and that discussions are ongoing to reach a decision in the near future. The initiative reflects the government’s broader objective of expanding digital access and ensuring that a larger segment of the population can benefit from mobile connectivity.
According to the IT minister, increasing mobile phone penetration remains a priority for the ministry, particularly as mobile devices continue to serve as a primary gateway to digital services, financial inclusion, and online platforms. She noted that the ministry is exploring multiple options to achieve this objective, including structured financing and leasing models that could make smartphones more accessible to users who are currently unable to afford upfront costs. Shaza Fatima also reiterated the ministry’s support for reducing taxes on imported mobile phones, highlighting that lower taxes could improve affordability and encourage wider adoption. She emphasized that enhanced access to mobile devices would not only increase penetration but also support digital inclusion and economic participation across different segments of society.
While discussing taxation measures, the minister referred to previous policy initiatives aimed at easing access to mobile phones. She recalled that mobile phones were earlier made tax free for overseas Pakistanis, an initiative that was intended to facilitate connectivity for returning citizens and visitors. However, she acknowledged that the policy resulted in widespread misuse, leading to a sharp increase in fraudulent activity. Multiple institutions became involved as individuals began registering mobile phones using other people’s passports. Shaza Fatima shared a personal example, stating that when she attempted to register her own mobile phone, it was discovered that three devices were already registered against her passport. Due to such misuse and the administrative challenges it created, the Federal Board of Revenue eventually discontinued the one phone tax free facility.
The minister noted that while the government remains interested in reducing the overall tax burden on mobile phones, concerns raised by Federal Board of Revenue continue to shape policy discussions. According to FBR, a significant portion of mobile phones are now being manufactured locally in Pakistan, which influences the government’s position on import taxation. Shaza Fatima indicated that the ministry is working to balance affordability, local manufacturing interests, and regulatory oversight while finalizing the proposed leasing policy. The consultations with stakeholders are expected to play a key role in shaping a framework that supports wider mobile phone access without creating opportunities for misuse. The policy under consideration is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem by improving access to essential devices and enabling broader participation in digital services.
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