The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) in South Korea has issued a draft technical regulation specifying that certain mobile and smart devices must be equipped with a USB Type-C receptacle connector. This regulation applies to a wide range of products and aims to standardize charging and data transfer methods for various electronic devices. Devices…

On November 14, 2024, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) announced a new technical standard for telecommunication equipment operating in the 5.725–6.425 GHz frequency range. The new standard will take effect on November 15, 2024, and applies to both fixed and mobile/portable devices operating in this frequency band.  Technical Specifications The updated standard outlines…

The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) of Egypt has launched eSIM technology, an important advancement in the country’s telecom sector. This rollout follows the successful completion of all necessary technical tests by the four major mobile operators, ensuring the readiness of the service.  The launch of eSIM technology is in line with NTRA’s objectives, particularly…

India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued an Office Memorandum regarding the exemption of Cloud-implemented IP routers and Wi-Fi CPEs from security certification requirements. This will allow manufacturers and service providers to avoid ComSec certification for these devices during the specified period, simplifying their path to market.  Details & Timeline of the Exemption The memorandum…

The Macao SAR Government has announced that the 3G licenses for four mobile telecommunications service providers will expire on June 4, 2025. This means the 3G network and services in Macau will be discontinued upon the expiration of these licenses.  Transition to 4G and 5G Services As the deadline approaches, the Government has urged mobile…

The Malaysia SIRIM CMCS Department, responsible for MCMC certification, has announced updates to the Intellectual Property (IP) forms, effective January 1, 2025. These changes address stakeholder concerns in the communications and hybrid industries.  Changes to the Form A new declaration option has been introduced for applicants who cannot obtain written consent from the IP owner to use their…

As the holiday season approaches, many regulatory agencies around the world observe scheduled closures that may impact business operations and regulatory processes. To help you stay informed and plan accordingly, we’ve compiled the official closure dates for agencies in Brazil, Costa Rica, India, South Africa, and Mexico. These closures could affect certification processes, approvals, and…

On November 28, 2024, Mexico’s General Congress approved a decree to dissolve the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFETEL), the country’s telecommunications regulator, and replace it with the Agencia de Transformación Digital y Telecomunicaciones (Agency for Digital Transformation and Telecommunications). Transition and Responsibilities of the New Agency The new Agency will officially begin operations on January…

Starting January 3, 2025, Belarus will implement updated energy efficiency requirements for certain product categories as stated in Resolution of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus No. 708.   Manufacturers and importers will be required to undergo a mandatory conformity approval procedure and obtain Belarus Certificates of Conformity for four specified product…

On November 26, 2024, the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) released an Operational Procedure outlining auditing requirements for the cybersecurity policies of telecommunications equipment suppliers. This procedure, detailed in Act No. 16417, follows public consultation efforts and reflects recommendations from a diverse range of stakeholders, including service providers, industry representatives, and research organizations.  The document is…

In November 2024, Egypt’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) released updated Radio Spectrum Guidelines for Short-Range Devices (SRDs), version 1.3. These guidelines outline the regulatory and technical parameters for SRD usage, including frequency allocations, power limits, channel spacing, modulation bandwidth, and duty cycles.  Key Updates 6 GHz Band Allocation: The 5925–6425 MHz frequency band is…

The Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has released a draft decision to retire legacy mobile telecommunications networks (2G and 3G) as part of its commitment to modernizing the country’s telecommunications sector. The proposal, stemming from Section 38 of the ESCCOM Act (2013), also includes guidelines for spectrum allocation under the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) and…