Smaller brands may be forced to import fully built mobile devices, after latest BCD levy

NEW DELHI: Smaller smartphone brands may resort to importing completely built devices instead of assembling in India, as the aggregate duty on components has become almost equal to that on a complete unit, a development which may hit the government’s plans of expanding local manufacturing.From October 1, the government levied 10% import, or basic customs, duty on display assembly, touch panel/cover glass assembly, as per the phased manufacturing