FBR proposes to implement ‘one person, one mobile’ rule for air travelers

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is considering a new rule that would limit passengers to one mobile phone per person upon arrival on Pakistan's airports. Any additional phones will be seized by officials.

The tax authority has sought feedback on a proposed amendment that would restrict passengers to carrying a single cell phone.

FBR issued SRO 2028(I)/2024 to amend the Baggage Rules 2006 and requested stakeholder input within seven days. A decision has yet to be made, and the deadline of December 13th is approaching.

As per new guidelines, passengers arriving from abroad will be allowed to bring only one mobile phone for personal use. Any additional phone will be confiscated.

The suggestion aims to curb the practice of importing goods for commercial purposes under the guise of personal luggage.

If no significant changes are made within the timeframe, the proposed rules will be implemented through a gazette notification.

The revenue body announced an amended rule defining the limitations on bringing "commercial quantities" of goods into Pakistan. A "commercial quantity" is defined as items brought for trading or funding purposes.

Under the changes, travelers bringing goods exceeding $1200 in value will be considered for commercial trade and subject to strict regulations.

According to a document shared on the FBR's website, commercial quantity goods are released after paying a fine equal to 30% of the value, in addition to duties and taxes.

However, with the new amendment to Rule 17, FBR proposes, "The goods brought in commercial quantity shall not be released on payment of duty, taxes, and redemption fine."