By Ogaga Ariemu
The Global System for Mobile Telecommunication Association has revealed the reason for the continued surge in the prices of smartphones in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
GSMA’s recent report disclosed that the impact of high taxes in the region is responsible for the 10 to 30 per cent surge in smartphone prices.
According to the report, high levies and taxation impact the accessibility and availability of smartphone devices in Africa.
According to GSMA’s report, taxes and duties contribute to a 10 to 30 per cent increase in smartphone costs, varying by country across Africa, hindering accessibility for many in the region.
GSMA pointed out that high manufacturing costs, especially in the 5G and 4G markets, pose challenges for manufacturers in SSA to produce affordable devices, limiting market share.
The report stressed that smartphone affordability remains a significant barrier to mobile internet usage in the region, with approximately 60 per cent of Africa’s population lacking mobile internet access despite coverage.
Also, the GSMA report said the influx of devices priced under $100, particularly from Chinese brands like Tecno, Itel, and Infinix, has played a crucial role in making smartphones more accessible.
