Government slaps 10% import duty on USB cables

NEWDELHI: The government has imposed a 10% import duty on static converter for cellular phones like USB cables. So far, this was exempt from basic customs duty. The ‘static converter for cellular mobile phones’ are phone charging cables, which can also be used for accessing and transfer of handset data to a computer, laptop, TV or tablet. With this move, the static converters imported into India will attract same 10% basic customs duty as imposed on imported mobile chargers. Indian Cellular Association National President Pankaj Mohindroo said this is reflection of government’s commitment towards phased manufacturing programme, designed to boost domestic ecosystem for mobile phone production in India.