We’ve got you covered with the latest and upcoming regulation changes happening around the world! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments within the industry. Check out our September Newsletter!
Laos
1. MPT introduces updated type approval regulations under MTC Notification 0416:
- Type 1 equipment: Type Approval certificate and Declaration of Conformity (DoC) acknowledgment letter valid for 3 years.
- Type 2 equipment: Type Approval certificate and/or DoC acknowledgment letter valid for 1 year.
*Equipment with 2G 3G 4G data communication only is considered type 2.
2. Label requirement:
This regulation applies to both domestic and international individuals, entities, or organizations engaged in the manufacturing, importing, exporting, usage, and sale of equipment within Laos PDR. Upon obtaining the Type Approval (TA) Certificate and Declaration of Conformity (DoC), importers and distributors have the option to purchase labels for affixing to their equipment (labels must be purchased for the total number of units being imported to Laos in each shipment).
- MTC will deploy a team for inspecting both the equipment and labels in local markets. The label validation aligns with the significance of the TA certificate and DoC.
- Importers and distributors are required to submit label applications to MTC. After MTC’s review of the documents, the labels will be issued.
- Labels should be affixed to the equipment itself, the packaging box, or the equipment’s user manual/guideline, ensuring they are easily and clearly visible.
Type 1 Label
- The applicants code is A-SSS
- The month/ year of issue is MM/VY
- The number of DoC, which has 4 digits is DODD
- TA certificate number which has 4 digit is CCCC
Type 2 Label
- The applicants code is A-SSS
- TThe month/ year of the issue is MM/VY
- The number of Doc, with has a 4 digit code is DODD
Products requiring a product label:
MTC permits the use of E-labeling, but fees are applicable:
- To acquire labels, importers can initiate the process by reaching out to MTC with their label purchase application.
- Requirements include the Type Approval (TA) certificate and/or Declaration of Conformity (DoC), as well as business registration and tax registration.
- Additionally, business operator licenses and other relevant documents are necessary for this process.
Brazil
ANATEL has officially released Act 9281, which outlines the technical criteria for evaluating the conformity of Smart TV Boxes. Act 9281 is set to be effective from September 11, 2023. This novel standard introduces a distinct product category known as Smart TV Boxes, encompassing all terminal devices designed for internet-based access to audiovisual content and its display on external screens. It’s important to note that this standard excludes personal computers, televisions, mobile phones, tablets, and cable TV equipment from its scope.
Furthermore, for products to be considered compliant, they must adhere to the following stipulations; otherwise, approval may be withheld:
a) The product’s model and brand seeking approval should not appear in ANATEL’s list of irregular equipment or software. (It’s worth noting that ANATEL is actively updating this list, although there is no projected publication date.)
b) Information or instructions on the manufacturer’s or its representative’s internet pages, product manual, or any other documentation should not pertain to the use, updating, or installation of software or applications designed for unauthorized access to audiovisual content.
c) A formal declaration must be furnished, affirming that the equipment intended for consumer use is devoid of any software or applications facilitating unauthorized access to audiovisual content. This declaration must also confirm that the equipment’s documentation and advertisements do not contain guidance or encouragement for installing software or applications with illicit purposes.
Additionally, specific anti-piracy laboratory tests are mandatory within Brazil and must conform to the following criteria:
New test items required for Smart TV Box and Media Streaming Device
- 5.2.2.1. Allows the device for use and list all software or applications installed by default on the device. Also record the version of the operating system and its kernel.
- 5.2.2.2. Check if there is any software, application, functionality or instructions that allow illicit access to audiovisual content.
- 5.2.2.3. Check if the operating system of the equipment is provided with root mode enabled (mode
with greater privileges for use and configuration of the operating system). - 5.2.2.4. Check whether the installation of software or third-party applications not available in the equipment’s application store is enabled by default.
- 5.2.2.5. Check if the equipment has any form or service of communication (port) that is not documented.
- 5.2.3. Record the results of previous checks in the test report for the assessment of the agent responsible for evaluating the conformity of the prod
For more details, you can find in this official link here
Brazil
ANATEL has unveiled Act 7971, outlining the technical prerequisites for evaluating the adherence of telecommunication products to the IPv6 protocol. This updated legislation is scheduled to take effect on January 8, 2024. Act 7971 introduces revisions to IPv6 requirements for products falling under WWAN, xPON, xDSL, and DOCSIS categories.
Additionally, this standard brings forth the following noteworthy modifications:
- It transitions from the IPv6 standard RFC 2460 to the updated RFC 8200 for Mobile Service (WWAN).
- It formalizes the evaluation process for products employing WWAN modules that have received ANATEL’s prior approval, provided that the entire IPv6 protocol is implemented within the WWAN module itself (rather than the host). In such cases, conducting IPv6 protocol verification or testing according to RFC 8200 alone suffices to demonstrate compliance with ANATEL’s IPv6 requirements. Manufacturers are required to submit a declaration affirming the full integration of the IPv6 protocol in the module.
However, for products where the IPv6 protocol is fully or partially integrated into the host’s software or firmware (e.g., within the operating system), a comprehensive round of IPv6 testing is mandated. The primary change in the new Act, in comparison to the existing IPv6 requirements, is the replacement of the RFC 2460 standard with RFC 8200, while other testing requirements remain unaltered.
The table below outlines the specific IPv6 standards applicable to each technology:
Brazil
This week, ANATEL has issued the latest Act 13011 (2023). This new legislation extends the effective date of Act 5159, affording charger manufacturers additional time to align with its requirements. The primary cause for concern among manufacturers stemmed from the introduction of new mechanical testing procedures applied to the power plug designed for connection to electrical AC mains sockets.
As a result, charger manufacturers will have the flexibility to opt for the approval process outlined in either Act 3481/2019 (the former legislation) or Act 5159/2022 (the recent legislation) until April 14th, 2024.
For access to the official documents, please click the link below:
Argentina
ENACOM has introduced fresh regulations pertaining to Broadband and FHSS devices. These regulations were officially documented in Resolution 1132/2023, published in Argentina’s Official Bulletin on August 18th, 2023.
Laboratories have been granted authorization to perform automatic testing in accordance with these standards, as articulated in Articles 5 and 6 of this resolution. The Broadband Standard has undergone significant alterations, whereas the FHSS standard has remained largely unchanged.
Devices can now undergo testing using these standards, but the enforcement date is set 90 days from their publication in the official bulletin:
- Publication Date: August 18th, 2023
- Enforcement Date for devices governed by these standards: November 16th, 2023
- Maximum allowed conducted power for all bands can be found on page 8, section 5.5.2.
WiFi 6E devices are eligible for approval:
- Permissible frequency band: 5925 – 7125 MHz
- Maximum average conducted power:
- Access Points or Slave Devices: 30 dBm
- Client devices: 24 dBm
- Access Points and Slave Devices in this band are restricted for indoor use only and must be powered via a wired connection (no battery power). Mobile devices like cell phones, tablets, or notebooks can only serve as Client Devices.
- They must feature a permanently integrated antenna, except for modules. Devices in other frequency bands can continue to employ integrated, detachable, or external antennas.
Antennas have gained significance within ENACOM. Models with identical transmitters but marketed with different antennas must apply for independent certificates with distinct ID numbers.
Antenna gain limits have been defined. Refer to page 7 for details.
Radiated tests are now permitted in certain cases. See page 15, section 6.8 for specifics.
Primary Impact:
- Renewals or new applications can be based on previous standards until November 16th, 2023.
- For instance, if a product certificate expires on December 16th, 2023, the renewal can be submitted using the existing paperwork on November 16th, 2023.
- New applications can employ the updated standards immediately.
- Starting from November 17th, all new applications and renewals governed by Broadband/FHSS standards must use the latest versions of the standards. This implies that products with certificates expiring on or after December 17th, 2023, will need a complete local retest.
- Products with WiFi 6E functionality can now be enabled with a local test. Manufacturers can request a certificate modification while retaining the same ID.
- ENACOM mandates complete testing of WLAN and/or BT functions when adding 6 GHz, ensuring that all interfaces comply with the new standard version.
Argentina
Key Information to Highlight:
- On August 18th, 2023, ENACOM introduced Resolution 1134/2023, which extends radar band allocation.
- Specifically, level probing radars are now authorized to operate within the 76-81 GHz band.
- The attached resolution includes an annex with the new technical standard for level probing radars (ENACOM-Q2-64.02 V22.1) and an ENACOM DoC draft (both in Spanish). A translated version of the standard will be made available next week.
Crucial Points:
Level probing radars are permitted within the 76-81 GHz band. The following power limits apply:
- Maximum Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP):
- Average: -3 dBm in 1 MHz
- Peak: +34 dBm in 50 MHz
- Maximum Equivalent Electric Field Intensity (EFEI) allowed:
- Average: 92.26 dBμV/m @ 3m. RBW: 1 MHz
- Peak: 129.26 dBμV/m @ 3m. RBW: 50 MHz
- Maximum Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP):
The enforcement date coincides with the date of publication: August 18th, 2023.
Foreign reports are accepted, provided they adhere to the limits specified in the technical standard ENACOM-Q2-64.02 V22.1.
An ENACOM Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is required and should contain the following details:
- Manufacturer name and address or the importer’s information in Argentina
- Product description, including brand and model
- Declaration of compliance with standard ENACOM-Q2-64.02 V22.1
- Signatory identification, encompassing name, surname, and position
- Date of issuance
Chile
On July 24, 2023, the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL) in Chile unveiled their intentions to shift networks from 2G to contemporary, energy-efficient alternatives. SUBTEL has called upon companies looking to discontinue 2G networks to furnish a comprehensive transition plan. This request aims to ensure that the shutdown of 2G networks in any region of Chile does not disrupt connectivity for users.
Hong Kong
On July 18, 2023, the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) in Hong Kong unveiled an enhanced edition of the Spectrum Release Plan (SRP) for the period 2023-2025. This revised SRP delineates the frequency bands slated for reassignment for mobile services after the current assignments expire. Additionally, it specifies new spectrum allocations intended for both mobile services and mobile/wireless fixed services. Notably, the 6570-6770 MHz and 6910-7125 MHz frequency bands are part of the fresh spectrum to be allocated for mobile service provision.
China
On June 29, 2023, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MiIT) of the People’s Republic of China issued the “Notification Regarding the Introduction and Advancement of the New Network Access License Mark,” aimed at gradually replacing the conventional paper NAL mark.
Manufacturers, based on the product’s characteristics, can choose one or more of the following methods to apply the new Network Access License mark:
Electronic Display: Incorporate and display the new Network Access License mark within the operating system or management software of the telecommunications equipment.
Physical Printing: Employ printing, spray painting, or etching techniques to imprint the new Network Access License mark on the product’s casing, nameplate, packaging, or other relevant areas of telecommunications equipment.
Label Attachment: Affix the label featuring the new Network Access License mark to the product’s casing, nameplate, or packaging of telecommunications equipment.
In accordance with stipulated regulations, other circumstances may apply.
Effective from July 1, 2023, the new Network Access License mark will be officially introduced. During the period from July 1 to December 31, 2023, manufacturers have the option to request permission from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (Telecommunications Equipment Certification Centre) to employ the new network entry permit mark. Alternatively, they can continue to request and use the traditional Network Access License paper mark.
Starting from January 1, 2024, the new Network Access License mark will be comprehensively implemented. At that point, the issuance of the traditional paper mark will cease. However, previously issued paper marks will remain valid throughout the duration of the Network Access License’s validity and can continue to be utilized.
China
The Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA) of China introduced updated regulations on June 30, 2023, titled “Implementation Regulations for Compulsory Product Certification of Electronic Products and Safety Appendices” (CNCA-C09-01:2023). These revised rules encompass Power Supplies, Power Banks, Lithium-Ion Batteries, and Battery Packs as part of CCC-regulated products, while exempting nine low safety risk or mature technology products. The effective date for these rules was August 1, 2023, and the previous regulations (CNCA-C08-01:2014), (CNCA-C09-01:2014), and (CNCA-C16-01:2014) were rescinded.
Certification Bodies appointed for this purpose will develop corresponding certification implementation guidelines in alignment with the new rules. They will be authorized to conduct certification assessments and issue certificates once they have submitted the necessary documentation to the CNCA.
Pre-existing compulsory product certification certificates issued before August 1, 2023, will remain valid, and the transition process will be completed during renewals or transitions necessitated by product modifications and standards updates.
China
The State Radio Administration of MIIT has issued a notification regarding the application deadline for SRRC type approval using the older standards MIIT [2002] 353, MIIT [2002] 277, and MIIT [2012] 620 within the 2.4/5.1/5.8GHz frequency bands:
Starting from October 15, 2023, new applications for the old standard concerning products operating within the 2.4/5.1/5.8GHz frequency bands will no longer be accepted. Additionally, applications for incorporating modules certified under the old standard into new host devices will also cease to be accepted.
As of October 15, 2023, renewal applications will exclusively be considered for devices that operate within the 2.4/5.1/5.8GHz frequency bands and adhere to the new standard MIIT [2021] 129. Renewal applications for certificates issued under the old standard will no longer be processed.
Equipment and modules certified under the old standard for the 2.4/5.1/5.8GHz frequency bands may undergo an update to meet the requirements of the new standard for equipment. This can be accomplished through a modified application within the certificate’s validity period. The updated application must include a self-test or third-party lab report, with the laboratory holding CMA qualification and the testing capabilities of MIIT [2021] 129.
Applications for equipment under the old standard must be submitted by October 15, 2023. The maximum validity period for certificate issuance is until December 31, 2025. Manufacturers possessing equipment certified under the old standard can apply for updates to comply with MIIT [2021] 129 requirements during the certificate’s validity period. Subsequently, a renewal application is essential prior to certificate expiration.
Mexico
The Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFETEL) in Mexico conducted a public consultation on June 23, 2023, regarding the preliminary draft for the modification of Disposición Técnica IFT-011-2022: Technical Specifications of Mobile Terminal Equipment Part 3, Cellular Broadcasting Service for Notification of Risk or Emergency Situations. Subsequently, on September 20, 2023, IFETEL officially released the Modified version of NOM-221 Part 3. The primary amendments include:
Channels designated for receiving Alert Messages in Mobile Terminal Equipment are strictly reserved for their intended purpose and may not be utilized for advertising, promotional, or any other purposes beyond those explicitly listed in the technical provision.
Channels 4380 (primary configuration) and 519 (secondary configuration) must be enabled and activated via MMI codes provided by ETM manufacturers.
Compliance with the display format of Alert Messages in Mobile Terminal Equipment will be assessed through the use of digital radiocommunication simulators.
Mobile Terminal Equipment that were already in the process of conformity evaluation before the Modification came into effect will continue through the evaluation process under their original terms.
Test labs and Certification Bodies may issue Test Reports and Certificates of Conformity (CoCs) in accordance with the previous version of DT IFT-011-2022, published on September 13, 2022, for a period not exceeding 120 calendar days following the effective date of the Modification.
These Modifications will be enforceable from September 21.
Vietnam
The Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) of Vietnam has implemented modifications to its type approval certification requirements. Here are the key changes:
Type approval certificates will now include comprehensive Manufacturer and Factory (OEM) information. In cases where there are multiple factories, each factory must possess its own type approval certificate and sample unit. When a factory is not owned by the manufacturer, more extensive documentation and a potential virtual factory inspection may be necessary.
Regardless of whether the certificate holder is the manufacturer or a local company, the certificate will display the country of origin for the factories. Previously, listing the country of origin was not mandatory if the certificate holder was an overseas manufacturer.
For Certification Holders:
- Overseas Manufacturers: They can only hold the certification if they have a representative office in Vietnam, and this office must confirm the factory (OEM) information.
- If the above condition cannot be met, the certification holder may be the importer.
- If the importer is the certification holder, there are two conditions:
- The manufacturer and the OEM/ODM belong to the same organization (evidence required): In this case, they can obtain type approval for 3 years.
- The manufacturer and the OEM/ODM do not belong to the same organization (evidence required): They can still obtain type approval for 3 years, but they need to provide the ISO9001 certificate for the factory and evaluate the production of OEM/ODM via video (note that this was not yet ready by VNTA authority).
Representative offices can utilize the test report under the manufacturer’s name directly. Importers can only use the test report under the manufacturer’s name if they obtain a Letter of Authorization (LoA) from the representative office or a consular-legalized LoA.
Test reports from Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) labs will only be accepted if they comply with QCVN standards, not ETSI EN Standards. The MRA test lab must verify the test report and send a confirmation email as evidence. Test reports from non-MRA test labs are accepted when the Ministry of Information and Communications announces their acceptance, particularly for cases where local testing is not feasible, as in 5G NR.
When using module reports, the system applicant must obtain authorization from the report holder. This authorization process depends on whether the report holder is the manufacturer or the importer and may require consular legalization. The module test report must include information about types, model numbers, and the manufacturer of the host device, ensuring consistency with the product seeking TA certification.
Malaysia
On July 13, 2023, the Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM) issued Announcement SQASI/CMCS/1/23/0004, which extends the implementation of interim Type Approval for IPv6 cellular equipment without Wi-Fi interface for an additional year. Consequently, until July 10, 2024, both new applications and Certificate of Conformity (CoC) renewals are permissible, each with a maximum validity period of one (1) year. These applications, whether new or for renewal, necessitate the submission of test reports conducted by an accredited laboratory. This announcement comes into effect on July 10, 2023, and will remain in effect until further notice is provided by SIRIM.
El Salvador
On July 9, 2023, the Superintendencia General de Electricidad y Telecomunicaciones (SIGET) in El Salvador issued Resolution No. T-0408-2023, which introduces amendments to the Cuadro Nacional de Atribución de Frecuencias (CNAF). This revision designates the 6 GHz frequency band (5925-7125 MHz) for unlicensed utilization, specifically for low-power indoor Wi-Fi applications.
Nicaragua
The Instituto Nicaragüense de Telecomunicaciones y Correos (TELCOR) released Administrative Agreement No. 001-2023 in La Gaceta on July 31, 2023. This agreement designates the 894-960 MHz frequency band for advanced mobile broadband services and reaffirms the usage of the 915-928 MHz frequency band for Short Range Devices and Long Range Devices operating with low power.
Gambia
The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) in Gambia conducted a thorough process involving industry readiness consultations, framework development, and spectrum re-farming to secure the essential spectrum bands and bandwidths for the deployment of 5G technology. On June 15, 2023, PURA officially approved the implementation of 5G technology by QCELL and announced the official launch of the 5G network in Gambia.
Senegal
The Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications et des Postes (ARTP) in Senegal conducted a tender process to choose an operator capable of efficiently and dependably delivering 5G infrastructure. ARTP has conditionally granted a 5G license to Sonatel (Orange Senegal), and they are now gearing up for the implementation of the 5G network in Senegal.
United Kingdom
The UK government plans to permanently acknowledge the CE marking in England, Wales, and Scotland, extending its recognition beyond December 2024. This modification impacts 18 regulations within the purview of the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
- Toys
- Pyrotechnics
- Recreational craft and personal watercraft
- Simple pressure vessels
- Electromagnetic compatibility
- Non–automatic weighing instruments
- Measuring instruments
- Measuring container bottles
- Lifts
- Equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX)
- Radio equipment
- Pressure equipment
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Gas appliances
- Machinery
- Equipment for use outdoors
- Aerosol
- Low–voltage electrical equipment
Special rules apply to some products covered by the UKCA label:
- Medical devices
- Rail interoperability
- Construction products
- Civil explosives
- Marine equipment
- Cableways
- Energy–using products
- Transportable pressure equipment
- Hazardous substances (RoHS)
The relevant departments overseeing these domains have either already communicated or will communicate plans when the time is right. According to the most recent update, the originally specified deadline for introducing products with CE marking into the UK was set to conclude on December 31, 2024. With this third revision to the deadline, it will remain possible to use CE marking for importing goods into the UK market even beyond 2024.
India
India has imposed restrictions on the import of laptops, tablets, and other devices categorized under HSN 8471. These restrictions have been extended for an additional three months by the DGFT to allow the industry more time for preparations, thus shifting the effective date to November 1, 2023. Until October 31, 2023, products falling under HSN 8471, including laptops, tablets, various types of computers, and servers, can be cleared without the need for a License for Restricted Imports.
Key points from the notification include:
The restricted products are classified under HS codes 84713010, 84713090, 84714110, 84714120, 84714190, 84714900, and 84715000.
Products falling under these HS codes will require an Import License from DGFT. Prior to applying for the Import License, Type Approval certification and an Import License from WPC must be obtained. Self-declaration (ETA-SD) will not be accepted.
Import licensing requirements will be exempted in the following situations:
- Importing only a single unit of a laptop, tablet, certain PCs, and similar items (not applicable to servers).
- Importing the product (up to 20 items per consignment) for purposes such as R&D, testing, benchmarking, evaluation, repair and return, and product development.
- Re-importing a product after it has been repaired abroad.
- The product serves as an essential component of another capital good.
Japan
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) in Japan has put forward a proposal to revise the Ministerial Ordinance for the Enforcement of the Radio Act. This proposal seeks to ease the technical criteria for certifying Power Line Communication (PLC) and Induction Heating (IH) cookers. Specifically, the PLC specification and type installation requirements will be relaxed, and the IH cooker’s maximum output power limit in the type confirmation will be increased from 3 kW to 10 kW. The proposed amendment is scheduled to take effect in December 2023.
Kuwait
The Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) of Kuwait issued Resolution No. 297/2023 on June 11, 2023, addressing the “cessation of issuing import and entry permits for telecommunication peripheral devices exclusively utilizing second and third-generation communication technologies or both, into the national market.” Starting from September 1, 2023, the importation and entry of telecommunications devices that solely rely on 2G and/or 3G technologies will be prohibited in Kuwait.