PPP lawmaker calls for reduction in mobile phone taxes ahead of budget

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) MNA Ali Qasim Gilani on Wednesday called for a reduction in taxes on mobile phones, saying the devices should be treated as necessities rather than luxuries in today's digital age.

Arriving at Parliament carrying a placard demanding the abolition of PTA-related taxes on mobile phones, Gilani urged the government to provide relief to consumers by lowering the tax burden on handset purchases.

Speaking to reporters, he said mobile phones had become an essential part of everyday life and should not be classified as luxury goods.

Gilani proposed reducing the tax on mobile phones from 25 percent to 18 percent, arguing that such a move would make handsets more affordable for the public.

He said recommendations prepared by a parliamentary committee had already been forwarded to the government and expressed hope that the issue would be addressed during the ongoing budget session.

"A reduction in mobile phone taxes is expected in the budget," Gilani said, adding that lower taxes could significantly reduce the prices of mobile devices and increase accessibility for consumers.

The PPP lawmaker said all political parties should focus on measures that provide direct relief to the public, particularly at a time when people are facing economic challenges.

He maintained that reducing taxes on mobile phones would directly benefit consumers and help promote digital connectivity across the country.

The demand comes ahead of the federal budget, with lawmakers and industry stakeholders seeking tax reforms to lower consumer costs and expand access to digital services.