In the Budget 2024-25, the Union Finance Minister announced a reduction in the basic customs duty (BCD) on mobile phones, their printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, and chargers, lowering it from 20% to 15%. Highlighting the significant growth in domestic production and exports of mobile phones over the past six years, the Finance Minister stated, “In the interest of consumers, I propose to reduce the BCD on mobile phones, mobile PCBA, and mobile chargers to 15%.”
Additionally, to boost value addition in the domestic electronics sector, the Finance Minister proposed removing the BCD on oxygen-free copper for manufacturing resistors, subject to conditions. She also suggested exempting certain parts needed for producing connectors.
This reduction in BCD was a key demand from electronics manufacturing bodies. Pankaj Mohindroo, chairman of the India Cellular Electronics Association (ICEA), praised the government’s decision, emphasizing its focus on enhancing manufacturing and export competitiveness. He noted that the Finance Minister’s acknowledgment of the growth in mobile phone manufacturing and exports aligns with the ICEA’s recommendations for reducing BCD on mobile phones, PCBA, and chargers to 15%. He added that the announcement would significantly boost manufacturing, exports, and competitiveness in the industry.
Moreover, the Finance Minister mentioned that the government would review the rate structure over the next six months to simplify duties, remove duty inversion, and reduce disputes, further supporting the industry’s growth.
 on mobile phones, their printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, and chargers, lowering it from 20% to 15%. Highlighting the significant growth in domestic production and exports of mobile phones over the past six years, the Finance Minister stated, “In the interest of consumers, I propose to reduce the BCD on mobile phones, mobile PCBA, and mobile chargers to 15%.”){kind=link}