In February 2025, the Ministry of Communication, Posts, and Digital Economy in Niger issued a Decree establishing a new regulation for the homologation of radio and telecommunications equipment. The goal is to modernize compliance, improve oversight, and strengthen technical standards for all telecom devices entering or operating within the country.
This new decree officially replaces previous frameworks and introduces several key changes impacting manufacturers, importers, and users of telecommunications equipment.
Shortened Certificate Validity Period
One of the most notable updates is the reduction in certificate validity from ten years to just three years.
- New homologation certificates issued from February 2025 onward will now be valid for three years.
- Certificates issued before February 2025 will remain valid until their original expiration dates.
This change allows the authority to revisit compliance more frequently and ensure equipment stays aligned with evolving technical standards.
Revised Certificate Format for Better Traceability
The structure of the homologation certificate is also being revised to improve equipment tracking and regulatory transparency. New certificates will now include:
- Type approval certificate number
- Date of issue of the certificate and period of validity
- Name and address of equipment manufacturer
- Name and address of the equipment importer or distributor
Technical information
- Designation and model of the equipment
- Reference of the conformity assessment document
- Reference standards
- Frequency of use of the equipment
- Specific condition of use
- Information on any modifications made, if applicable
Importers Must Register and Obtain Prior Approval
All telecommunications and radio equipment must be approved by Niger’s Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and the Post (ARCEP) before being imported or marketed in the country. The approval process requires:
- Importer registration and licensing with ARCEP
- Submission of equipment specifications and technical documents
- Payment of associated study and certification fees
Once Niger’s national testing laboratory is operational, additional charges for lab testing and technical verification will also apply.
Plans for Local Testing and Enforcement
While local testing is not yet mandatory, ARCEP has announced plans to implement it in the future. Once the national laboratory is launched, it will be used to conduct product testing and ensure technical compliance before certification is issued.
This move reflects a growing trend toward self-sufficient regulatory infrastructure, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign conformity assessments and speed up verification timelines.
Equipment Exempt from Certification
The new decree outlines a few exemptions from the homologation requirement. These include portable devices used only for receiving sound broadcasts and equipment used for national defense or public safety purposes.These exemptions are designed to maintain focus on commercial and consumer telecom equipment while allowing flexibility for essential services.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Niger
Certification Body:The Electronic Communications and Postal Regulatory Authority (ARCEP)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: 36 Months
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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