The ministries of Foreign Affairs and Communications announced the extension of the exemption period for mobile phones belonging to Egyptians residing abroad from 90 days to 120 days, effective April 1. That earlier decision had limited the exemption to only 90 days for paying customs duties and taxes or facing device deactivation. Addressing a controversial moveIn January, Customs Authority and the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority announced the end of the exceptional exemption for mobile phones brought into the country by passengers. This measure aimed to support the domestic mobile phone industry following the localization of manufacturing and the entry of 15 international companies into the Egyptian market. The exemption for Egyptians living abroad and tourists lasted for only 90 days from the date of implementation.

Source: Egypt Independent March 25, 2026 15:40 UTC