Directorate General of Customs Valuation Karachi has issued a revised customs valuation ruling for the import of mobile phone LCD screens from China and Hong Kong, marking a significant update in Pakistan’s customs assessment framework. The new ruling, identified as Valuation Ruling No. 1979 of 2025, replaces the previously enforced Valuation Ruling No. 1576/2021, which had been in effect since December 8, 2021.
This revision was necessitated by a variety of factors, including shifts in import data, evolving market trends, and disparities in pricing structures. According to the directorate, the customs values of mobile phone LCD screens had remained unchanged for over three years, prompting a reassessment under Sections 25 and 25A of the Customs Act, 1969. The purpose of this exercise was to ensure that the valuation of these imported goods reflects the latest market conditions, providing a fair and transparent basis for duty and tax assessments.
The valuation process involved detailed consultations with relevant stakeholders, including importers and industry representatives. These stakeholders were given the opportunity to present their perspectives on the appropriate valuation of the imported LCD screens. Additionally, they were asked to provide supporting documentation, including import invoices and relevant transactional data, to substantiate their claims regarding market pricing.
To ensure a comprehensive and accurate valuation, the customs authorities conducted an in-depth analysis of import records over the past 90 days. The data retrieval and scrutiny process aimed to identify any inconsistencies or anomalies in declared values. Some references to previously declared values were available, serving as benchmarks in the valuation exercise.
Following this extensive review, the customs authorities established the revised transaction values for mobile phone LCD screens imported from China and Hong Kong. The ruling emphasizes that these newly determined values will now serve as the standard for the assessment of applicable duties and taxes on such imports. This update is expected to bring greater clarity and consistency to the valuation process, reducing ambiguities that could lead to disputes between importers and customs officials.
Industry experts believe that the revised customs valuation will have a direct impact on the pricing of mobile phone repair components in Pakistan. Given that a significant portion of mobile phone LCD screens used in the country are imported from China and Hong Kong, any changes in customs duties could influence retail prices, ultimately affecting consumers and businesses involved in mobile phone repairs and resale.
Furthermore, the decision aligns with the government’s broader strategy to enhance revenue collection while maintaining a balanced trade environment. By revising outdated valuation rulings, the customs department ensures that duties and taxes are levied in accordance with current market realities, preventing revenue losses due to undervaluation or misdeclaration of import prices.
The updated ruling also serves as a reminder to importers about the importance of compliance with Pakistan’s customs regulations. With the new valuation framework in place, businesses dealing in mobile phone LCD screens will need to adapt to the revised customs values to avoid potential disputes or penalties. Transparency in import documentation and accurate declaration of transaction values will be crucial in ensuring smooth customs clearance and regulatory adherence.
As the revised customs valuation takes effect, stakeholders in the mobile phone industry will closely monitor its impact on import costs and market pricing. The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has reaffirmed its commitment to continuously reviewing valuation rulings in response to market developments, ensuring that Pakistan’s import regulations remain aligned with economic realities.
