The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is set to reopen applications for Community Sound Broadcasting Service licenses in December 2024. Following a successful licensing round in 2022/2023, where five new licenses were awarded, ICASA will again offer licenses for community sound broadcasting services and the related Radio Frequency Spectrum licenses. The process will…

The Telecommunications and ICT Regulatory Authority of Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI) has detected falsified approval certificates for telecommunications and ICT equipment circulating in the market. These counterfeit certificates, which falsely claim to be issued by ARTCI, may mislead both consumers and operators. ARTCI adheres to strict and transparent procedures for equipment approval, as outlined in Decree…

On July 1, 2024, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) of Vietnam issued Decision No. 1725/QD-BCT, updating the list of energy-efficient products subject to energy testing and labeling. This decision replaces Appendix 3 of the previous Decision No. 1182/QD-BCT from May 20, 2019. Key Updates Included Products: The revised list included updates for various…

Paraguay’s National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) has made key changes to the National Frequency Allocation Plan (PNAF). This has affected several frequency bands through Resolición Directorio No. 1752/2024. The resolution Modifies Nation Note PRG-71 and Eliminates National Note PRG-75. The revised PNAF introduces several notable modifications aimed at improving the allocation and use of radio frequencies….

On July 8, 2024, Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) held a consultation on a draft technical regulation. This draft focused on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for hand-held and body-worn wireless communication devices, designated as QCVN 134:2024/BTTTT. This draft aims to refine safety standards for devices that emit radio frequencies, ensuring they meet rigorous…

On July 5, 2024, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of the Philippines issued Memorandum Circular No. 002-07-2024. This document introduced significant updates to the regulations governing wireless LAN technologies. This new directive revises the operating parameters for several frequency bands, impacting both indoor and outdoor wireless applications. Key Updates Frequency Bands and Power Limits The…

Bahrain is set to lead the region by enabling Next-Generation Wi-Fi 7 products. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has introduced an updated Technical Specifications document and supporting regulatory motions, paving the way for the latest advancements in wireless technology. This update includes new specifications for Wi-Fi 7 and the expansion of spectrum ranges 5470 –…

Oman is implementing significant updates to its Type Approval certificate validity and labeling requirements. Effective August 21, 2024, the validity period for Type Approval certificates will be reduced from indefinite to a fixed term of four years. This change applies to both new and existing certifications. Any Type Approval certificates issued more than four years…

Last week, ANATEL launched Public Consultation No. 36/2024, proposing the discontinuation of 2G and 3G technologies. These older technologies are increasingly inadequate for today’s digital service demands. Their phase-out will enable a stronger focus on advancing 4G and 5G technologies. The consultation period ends on September 18, 2024, and includes several key proposals. Amendments to…

On July 3, 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) announced the launch of a public consultation regarding the allocation of the 4.9 GHz frequency band for 5G mobile communications systems. This consultation is designed to gather feedback from stakeholders and interested parties on the proposed frequency allocation. Comments can be submitted until…

Beginning June 1, 2025, Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will implement a new policy banning the use of Fixed-Satellite Service Earth Stations and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Communication Devices within the 3400 MHz to 3700 MHz frequency band. This decision, following the cancellation of the class assignment under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, means that…

On July 1, 2024, the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) of India announced an extension for the mandatory certification dates of five critical products under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) scheme This extension impacts products listed under Phases III, IV, and V of the MTCTE notifications. The following products now have a…