Confusion prevails regarding new electronic tax

President AbdelFattah El-Sisi approved parliamentary amendments that will results in taxes on imported devices. Mobile phone and electronic sellers are confused on when and on what type of devices does the tax apply.

The tax is expected to stand at 5% applied to mobile phones, phone accessories and parts besides the regular VAT and any other fees. Some mobile phone accessories like Bluetooth headsets can be subject to a 30% tax plus the VAT.

Playstations can be taxed up to 60% while selfie sticks and cameras are subject to 20% tax; all this is in addition to a 14% VAT.

The market is concerned on whether the tax will apply to mobile phones or not due to conflicting statements. The tax is expected to cause a big increase in prices which will affect sales negatively.