FBR Proposes Limits on Mobile Phones and Commercial Imports Over $1,200

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has proposed new regulations under the baggage scheme, which impose a limitation on travelers, permitting them to bring no more than one mobile phone. The FBR has stated that any additional mobile devices will be subject to confiscation.

Last week, the revenue authority issued SRO 2028(I)/2024, which contains proposed amendments to the Baggage Rules of 2006, and solicited feedback from stakeholders within a seven-day timeframe, which ends on Dec 13^th, 2024.

FBR has put forth proposed amendments to the definition of “commercial quantity” as outlined in rule 2, to limit both the quantity and value of items that incoming passengers are permitted to transport into the country.

According to the proposed amendments, the threshold for products classified as a “commercial quantity” will be limited to a maximum value of $1,200. Should the proposed amendments receive approval, any products with a value exceeding $1,200 will be categorized as a “commercial quantity” and will be liable to confiscation.

The draft further indicates that travelers may be permitted to carry only one mobile phone, in addition to their device, when arriving from overseas. Any supplementary mobile phones discovered within their luggage may be subject to confiscation.

Another proposed amendment addresses the handling of confiscated assets. Previously, items confiscated for being in commercial quantities may be returned by paying the necessary tariffs or fines.

At present, the FBR stipulates that goods classified as commercial quantities may be released upon the payment of a penalty amounting to 30 percent of the goods’ value, in addition to the applicable duties and taxes.

However, the FBR has now proposed an amendment to rule 17, which states: “The goods brought in commercial quantity shall not be released on payment of duty, taxes, and redemption fine.”