Egypt’s Ministries of Finance and Communications and Information Technology have launched a new electronic system aimed at improving governance and promoting the localization of the mobile phone industry. This initiative seeks to protect citizens’ interests, support the local manufacturing of high-quality mobile phones at competitive prices, and boost exports. The move comes as international companies have started manufacturing mobile phones in Egypt.
The system, accessible via the “Telephony” application, allows citizens to register imported mobile phones without interacting with customs personnel. Users can check applicable fees and make online payments within a three-month window. The system also helps protect consumers from counterfeit, smuggled, or non-compliant devices by enabling users to verify the authenticity of phones through the app.
Despite the new e-system, the customs duties and taxes on imported mobile phones will remain unchanged. Egyptian citizens visiting from abroad can bring in a mobile phone for personal use within the three-month transitional period without incurring fees. The system applies only to new mobile phones imported from abroad and does not affect locally purchased phones or those activated before January 1, 2025.
The government aims to create a transparent, regulated telecom market that benefits both consumers and the economy through these efforts.
