The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has reported a significant surge in the import of smartphones in Pakistan, reaching a staggering Rs370 billion during the first nine months of the financial year.
This marks a notable 180% increase compared to the previous year.
According to the report, the import expenditure on smart mobile phones from July to March amounted to $1.30 billion. In comparison, during the same period last year, imports stood at Rs106 billion or $460 million.
The data further reveals a remarkable surge in March 2024, with imports witnessing a staggering 930% increase compared to the previous year. In March alone, the volume of mobile phone imports reached Rs42.65 billion, with foreign exchange expenditure amounting to $153 million.
In March 2023, the value of imported phones was Rs4.16 billion or $14.8 million.
The unprecedented rise in mobile phone imports underscores the growing demand for technology and connectivity in Pakistan.
