According to statistics reported by Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration, the value of mobile phones imported in the span of the two months ending on June 21, has seen a 163% year-on-year jump, from just $41 million to a whopping $109 million.
In terms of value, mobile phones have a 1.6% share of the goods entering Iran through legal channels, landing the goods in the sixth spot in the country’s import bill in terms of the largest share. Mobile phones are followed by banana, grain, and oilcake in the bill.
The 163% YoY hike stems from a government push aimed at curbing cellphone smuggling which is named Mobile Registry Scheme, according to Financial Tribune.
Launched by the Telecom Ministry, IRICA, Communication Regulatory Authority and Industries Ministry, the scheme bars local operators from offering services to contraband handsets.
The scheme had been phased to prevent a shock to the huge cellphone market.
With all mobile brands now subject to the Registry Scheme, the government is now turning its attention to SIM supporting tablets.