Why iPhones Are So Expensive in Pakistan – Explained

In Pakistan, many people are confused about why iPhones are so expensive. When they check prices in other countries like the USA or UAE, they see that the same iPhone model is much cheaper there. This makes people ask, "Why are iPhones so costly in Pakistan?" The truth is, there are many reasons behind the high prices. It is not just about the phone itself but also about taxes, government rules, currency value, and how the market works in our country. In this blog, we will explain all these factors in a simple way so that you understand exactly why buying an iPhone in Pakistan feels so expensive compared to other places. If you are thinking of buying one, this guide will help you make a smart decision.

Import Duties and PTA Tax on iPhones in Pakistan

One of the biggest reasons iPhones are expensive in Pakistan is the import duty and PTA tax. Whenever a phone is brought into Pakistan from another country, the government adds different kinds of taxes on it. These include customs duty, sales tax, and the most important one, PTA tax. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made it necessary for every mobile device to be registered before it can be used with a local SIM card. This is part of the DIRBS system to stop smuggled phones. If you buy a new iPhone that is not PTA-approved, you have to pay a high amount of tax to register it. For example, PTA tax on a new iPhone can range from 90,000 to 160,000 rupees depending on the model. This tax alone makes iPhones much more costly in Pakistan compared to other countries.

Currency Depreciation and Exchange Rate Impact on iPhone Prices

Another big reason behind the high iPhone prices is the exchange rate. Apple sells iPhones in dollars, not in Pakistani rupees. So, when the value of the Pakistani rupee goes down, the price of the iPhone goes up. In recent years, the Pakistani rupee has lost value many times. Even if Apple doesn’t increase the price in dollars, the price in rupees becomes higher because of the weak currency. For example, if the dollar rate is 280 rupees and an iPhone costs 1000 dollars, the local price becomes 280,000 rupees. But if the dollar increases to 300 rupees, the same iPhone will cost 300,000 rupees without any change in the actual product. This shows how exchange rates can make iPhones much more expensive for Pakistani buyers.

Apple Has No Official Presence in Pakistan

Apple does not have any official store or office in Pakistan, and this causes many problems. Because of this, Apple products are not sold directly by the company here. Instead, private sellers and importers bring iPhones into the country. These sellers add their own profit margins, shipping costs, and handling fees. Also, there is no official Apple warranty or customer service available in Pakistan, which adds risk for the buyer. In countries like the USA, UK, or UAE, Apple sells products directly through its own stores or official partners, which helps keep the prices stable and support available. But in Pakistan, the prices vary from shop to shop because there is no control or fixed pricing. This is another reason why iPhones are more expensive and not backed by Apple’s own services.

High Demand and Low Supply of iPhones in Pakistan

In Pakistan, the iPhone is seen as a premium product and a status symbol. Many people want to buy it because of its brand name, camera quality, and smooth performance. Because of this, the demand for iPhones is very high, especially among students, professionals, and social media users. But the supply is limited because of import restrictions, taxes, and delays at customs. When demand is high and supply is low, the prices automatically increase. Also, during new launches or special events like Eid, the prices go even higher because more people want to buy them. Some sellers even keep the stock hidden and sell at a higher rate later. This makes the market unstable and the prices rise even more.

Why People Still Buy iPhones Despite the High Price

Even though iPhones are very expensive in Pakistan, many people still choose to buy them. There are many reasons for this. First, iPhones are known for their excellent camera, smooth software, and long life. People also feel more secure with Apple’s privacy and security features. Second, the iPhone is seen as a sign of status, especially among the youth and business class. Third, iPhones have a better resale value in the second-hand market. Even after using it for a year, an iPhone can be sold for a good price. This makes it feel like a good investment. Lastly, many users just prefer Apple’s ecosystem, including iCloud, iMessage, and FaceTime, which makes switching to other brands difficult. So, even with the high cost, the iPhone remains a popular choice in Pakistan.

Comparison with Global iPhone Prices

If we compare iPhone prices in Pakistan with other countries, we can clearly see a big difference. In the USA, a new iPhone might cost around 1000 dollars, and that includes warranty and customer support. In the UAE, prices are a bit higher but still close to the international rate. But in Pakistan, the same iPhone can cost 40 to 60 percent more. This extra cost is due to taxes, import charges, and currency exchange. For example, an iPhone 14 Pro Max that costs about 1000 dollars in the US might cost over 400,000 rupees in Pakistan. That’s a big difference. And because of no official pricing, the rates can vary depending on the shop or the seller. So, Pakistani buyers often pay more than what people in other countries pay for the same phone.

How to Save Money When Buying an iPhone in Pakistan

If you still want to buy an iPhone in Pakistan without overpaying, there are some smart ways to do it. First, you can look for PTA-approved phones to avoid paying the tax separately. Buying a phone that is already PTA registered saves time and stress. Second, you can wait for the price to settle after a new launch. Usually, prices are very high in the beginning and come down after a few months. Third, buy from trusted online stores like Malikki.com where you can compare different models, check for discounts, and find both new and used phones at fair prices. Some people also buy iPhones from abroad during travel and register them under passport allowance to save on taxes. But always make sure the phone is genuine and comes from a reliable seller.

Final Thoughts on Expensive iPhones in Pakistan

To sum it all up, iPhones are expensive in Pakistan because of many reasons like PTA taxes, import duties, weak currency, no official Apple presence, and limited supply. All of these add extra cost to the original price. But still, many people buy iPhones because of their quality, performance, and resale value. If you plan to buy one, it’s important to know all these facts so you can make a better decision. You can also visit Malikki.com to check the latest iPhone prices, compare models, and find the best deals on both new and used devices. Understanding the reasons behind the high price helps you shop smart and get the best value for your money.