FBR proposes restriction over bringing more than one phone from abroad

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has proposed new regulations under the baggage scheme, restricting travelers from bringing more than one mobile phone. Any additional phones will be confiscated, the FBR said.

The FBR has drafted an amendment to the Baggage Rules 2006, proposing that the value of “commercial quantity” would be capped at $1,200. Any goods exceeding $1,200 in value will be considered commercial trade items and subject to strict regulations, the draft said.

The FBR clarified that passengers bringing items worth over $1,200 will be unable to clear them without paying applicable duties, taxes, and penalties.

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

Another amendment proposes changes to the process of handling commercial quantity goods seized by authorities that were earlier released after the payment of duties or fines.

In this regard, FBR stated that commercial quantity goods would be released after the payment of a fine equal to 30 per cent of the value of goods in addition to duties and taxes. “The goods brought in commercial quantity shall not be released on payment of duty, taxes, and redemption fine,” amendments to rule 17 of the Baggage Rules 2006, read.

According to sources, the FBR has sought feedback from stakeholders over the draft amendments and a seven-day window has been provided for suggestions, which ends on Dec 13.