Egypt has unveiled an innovative plan to combat mobile phone smuggling while strengthening its local phone manufacturing industry. This collaborative effort by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology introduces a digital platform aimed at regulating phone imports and shielding consumers from counterfeit devices.
At the heart of this initiative is a mobile app called Telephony (My Phone). This tool is designed to help travellers register imported phones, ensuring that all necessary taxes and customs duties are accurately processed. With international brands now setting up local manufacturing operations in Egypt, the government sees this as a crucial step toward fair competition in the market.
How Telephony Works
The Telephony app allows individuals entering Egypt to bring one mobile phone for personal use without incurring fees—provided this privilege is used no more than once every three months. Travellers must register their devices through the app, which also facilitates electronic payment of any applicable fees.
Launched on January 1, 2025, the system ensures that phones activated before this date are unaffected, eliminating concerns for existing users. “This initiative marks a significant step toward creating a fair and transparent market while encouraging local production,” the government said in a statement.
A Boost for Local Industry
This system does more than tackle smuggling. It also aims to boost Egypt’s local phone manufacturing sector, creating a level playing field for domestic and international players. By ensuring taxes and duties are fairly applied, the government is fostering an environment where local manufacturers can thrive.
For consumers, the benefits are equally substantial. The initiative promises better protection against fake and illegally imported devices, offering greater confidence in the authenticity and quality of purchased phones. As the Telephony app rolls out, Egypt’s efforts to streamline its mobile phone market could serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar challenges.
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