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

From Oct 1, the government levied 10% import, or basic customs, duty on display assembly, touch panel/cover glass assembly, as per the phased manufacturing programme milestones. The levy is also expected to increase prices of devices by upto 5%, which may dampen demand during the crucial festive season, especially in the featurephones and entry-level smartphones.