ISLAMABAD: Mobile phone imports in Pakistan fell sharply by 16.31% during the first eleven months (July–May) of the fiscal year 2024–25, according to official figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). This marks a significant decline compared to the same period last fiscal year and suggests evolving trends in consumer demand, market dynamics, and possibly regulatory changes.
During July–May FY25, Pakistan imported mobile phones worth $1.356 billion, a notable decrease from $1.620 billion in the corresponding period of FY24.
The dip was particularly steep in May 2025, with mobile phone imports plummeting by 35.83% year-on-year, totaling $101.13 million, down from $157.59 million in May 2024. On a month-on-month basis, imports fell by 19.61%, compared to $125.10 million in April 2025.
Broader Trade Context:
While mobile phone imports showed a downturn, Pakistan’s overall exports rose by 5.15% during the same period, reaching $29.564 billion compared to $28.117 billion in the previous fiscal year. This signals positive momentum for some sectors in the export economy.
However, total imports increased by 7.50%, reaching $53.55 billion in July–May FY25, up from $49.82 billion in the previous year, which could widen the trade deficit despite stronger export performance.
Possible Causes for Import Decline:
- Reduced consumer spending on non-essential electronics due to inflation.
- Government restrictions or higher taxes on mobile phone imports.
- Increased domestic assembly of mobile phones.
- Currency volatility making imports more expensive.
Economic Implications:
The decline in mobile phone imports may ease pressure on foreign reserves, but the overall trade balance remains strained due to rising general imports. Economists suggest that policy recalibration may be needed to address the growing trade deficit while supporting local manufacturing.
