Techbytes: Egypt launches App to tackle phone smuggling, boost local industry (Techpoint)

Egypt has introduced a new electronic system to combat mobile phone smuggling and support its growing local phone manufacturing industry.

The initiative, launched jointly by the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, includes an app called “Telephony” (My Phone) as its central tool for registering imported mobile phones.

According to a report by Techpoint, the app ensures taxes and customs duties on imported phones are properly accounted for, promoting fair competition in a market increasingly populated by international brands manufacturing locally in Egypt.

Under the new system, travelers entering Egypt can bring one mobile phone for personal use without incurring fees, provided it is registered through the “Telephony” app.

This exemption can only be used once every three months. The app also facilitates online registration and payment of any applicable fees.

The system, which took effect on January 1, 2025, will not apply to phones activated before that date, ensuring no retroactive complications for existing devices.

By streamlining phone registration and tracking, the government aims to curb smuggling, encourage local production, and protect consumers from counterfeit or illegally imported devices.

This marks a significant step toward fostering a fairer and more secure mobile phone market in Egypt.

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