Pakistani smartphone users can now pay the advance tax levied by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in installments. Previously, the full tax amount was due upon registration of a device. The new installment plan aims to ease the financial burden on consumers, particularly for more expensive handsets. Details regarding the installment options, including the number of payments and applicable interest rates, have not been fully disclosed but are expected to be announced shortly. The PTA introduced the tax to increase government revenue and discourage the import of illegal mobile phones. This move follows public criticism regarding the immediate financial impact of the tax on consumers. The initiative is expected to improve smartphone affordability and encourage legal device registration.
