FBR issues new guidelines for importers of unregistered mobile phones

FBR has updated its Customs General Order (CGO) No. 01 of 2019 through the issuance of CG0 1 of 2024
An undated image of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) building. — Facebook
An undated image of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) building. — Facebook

In order to streamline the registration process of imported mobile in Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has introduced a detailed procedure for commercial importers.

The revenue board has updated its Customs General Order (CGO) No. 01 of 2019 through the issuance of CG0 1 of 2024.

The latest amendments specify the process for obtaining a Certificate of Clearance (COC) for devices that have already received type approval from the PTA.

It is now mandatory for the commercial importers to apply through the PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) online portal.

DIRBS brings a smoother flow to mobile device import approval in Pakistan. Upload your device details, including IMEI lists in CSV format, and the system verifies them electronically. This verification ensures the devices are type-approved, not stolen, duplicated, or cloned.

After submitting your application on the DIRBS portal, the system checks the IMEIs before sending it for customs processing via FBR's WeBOC system.

Once approved by FBR, DIRBS issues a Certificate of Compliance. To begin, sign up for a commercial account on the DIRBS portal and follow the steps for activation. This simplifies the process for commercial importers, promoting legal mobile device imports and sales in Pakistan.

For further assistance or inquiries, importers are advised to contact the PTA through the designated email address provided in the procedure.