On May 27, 2025, the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for telecommunications equipment testing laboratories between Indonesia and South Korea officially came into effect. This marks a significant milestone in international regulatory cooperation, enabling streamlined equipment certification across both countries.
Key Regulatory Impacts of the MRA
The agreement, originally signed on May 27, 2024, by the Deputy Ministers of both nations, underwent a one-year confidence-building phase to harmonize interpretations of technical standards and ensure regulatory alignment. With implementation now underway, South Korean laboratories officially recognized under this framework have been included in Indonesia’s list of Foreign Testing Centers (BULN).
The operationalization of the MRA brings several regulatory and economic benefits:
Test Result Reports (LHU) from MRA-approved South Korean labs are now accepted for telecommunications equipment certification in Indonesia—eliminating the need for redundant testing.
Indonesian-certified labs also gain reciprocal recognition in South Korea, promoting bilateral efficiency in equipment approvals.
The arrangement substantially reduces certification timeframes and costs for manufacturers and importers operating in both countries.
By removing duplicative testing requirements, the MRA fosters smoother market entry for telecom equipment while reinforcing confidence in cross-border regulatory compliance.
Quality Assurance and Oversight
Designated testing labs under the MRA remain subject to continuous oversight and quality evaluations by their respective national authorities. This ensures that recognized labs maintain technical competency and produce reliable test results aligned with each country’s standards.
Additionally, Indonesia’s Director General of Digital Infrastructure confirmed that certification service fees for equipment tested under the MRA scheme will be adjusted according to the scope of the technical evaluations recognized. These rates follow the framework established in Government Regulation No. 43 of 2023, which governs non-tax revenue within the Ministry of Communication and Informatics.
Boosting Domestic Lab Standards
Beyond facilitating international trade, the MRA is expected to elevate the quality and competitiveness of Indonesian testing laboratories by encouraging ongoing upgrades in capability, training, and conformity assessment practices. This cooperative framework ultimately contributes to a more robust and globally integrated certification system.
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