As Pakistan’s tech market adjusts to evolving import regulations, the newly introduced PTA tax rates on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models are making waves across the country.
With taxes on the latest iPhone 16 starting at a staggering Rs 107,000 for passport holders and reaching up to Rs 176,000 for ID card holders, the updated tax structure has led to a surge in prices for high-end devices, significantly impacting consumer purchasing power.
New Tax Rates for iPhone 16 Models
Pakistan’s telecom authority, PTA, has rolled out the revised tax structure for the iPhone 16 series in 2025, further complicating the affordability of these premium devices for many Pakistanis.
The tax rates vary depending on the consumer’s documentation, with passport holders facing lower taxes compared to those using a local CNIC.
Here is a breakdown of the new PTA taxes on the iPhone 16 models:
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on ID Card (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 107,000 | 130,500 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 113,000 | 137,000 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 135,500 | 161,500 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 148,500 | 176,000 |
New PTA Tax Rates for iPhone 15 Models
The tax rates for the iPhone 15 models have also been adjusted, providing slight relief for those opting for the older generation of Apple’s flagship devices. Below is the updated tax breakdown for iPhone 15 models:
| Model | PTA Tax on Passport (PKR) | PTA Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 148,500 | 176,000 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 135,300 | 161,480 |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 113,075 | 137,033 |
| iPhone 15 | 107,325 | 130,708 |
Impact on the Tech Market and Consumers
Despite a slight reduction in PTA taxes, iPhones in Pakistan remain among the most expensive smartphones available compared to international prices.
While the government argues that these taxes are aimed at regulating imports and supporting the local tech industry, the reality on the ground is more complex.
Experts warn that such high taxation on smartphones could significantly slow the adoption of new technology in Pakistan, especially when considering the already high price of mobile devices in the country.
For many consumers, the taxes on premium devices like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 still make them unaffordable, despite recent price cuts by local distributors. However, some hope that the reduced PTA taxes will make these smartphones more accessible to tech enthusiasts and consumers willing to invest in Apple’s latest innovations.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Consumers?
Although Pakistan’s PTA tax structure aims to regulate the market and curb smuggling, it continues to add a significant cost burden on consumers who wish to purchase high-end smartphones.
With the latest changes, while some relief has been offered in the form of slightly reduced taxes, it is unlikely that smartphones will become truly affordable for the majority of Pakistan’s population anytime soon.
As the iPhone 16 models make their way into the hands of local consumers, all eyes will be on how the new tax structure impacts smartphone sales, consumer behavior, and the future of the tech market in Pakistan.
