The Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) has implemented new regulations that affect telecommunication equipment dealers effective February 1, 2025. These regulations change Telecommunication Dealer’s License requirements and specific measures to control the sale of SMS SIM Boxes that have been linked to scam activities.
Telecommunication Dealer’s License Requirements
A Telecommunication Dealer’s License is required for businesses that hire, sell, import, or possess telecommunication equipment with the intention of selling it. The actual type of license required is determined by the kind of equipment being dealt in.
Telecommunication Dealer’s Class License: For equipment permitted for use in the local market, including registered equipment in the Telecommunications Equipment Database and equipment identified in the First Schedule of the Telecommunications (Dealers) Regulations.
Telecommunication Dealer’s Individual License: For equipment that is not approved by IMDA or is not listed in the First Schedule including re-export equipment.
New Measures for SMS SIM Boxes
The IMDA has implemented new standards to deal with the sale of SMS SIM Boxes, also known as GSM Modem Pools or SMS Gateways. These devices have been abused for sending scam SMS messages, causing the IMDA to enforce stricter measures.
Equipment that is prohibited includes SMS SIM Boxes with five or more SIM card slots are considered prohibited telecommunication equipment and cannot be imported without IMDA’s approval.
Exemption: SMS SIM Boxes with four or less SIM card slots are still allowed to be imported and traded to companies registered in Singapore as long as they are registered and comply with the existing rules.
Processing Times and Considerations
The usual time to process a Telecommunication Dealer’s License is two working days from submission, if all the information is correct. However, if the application involves M2M or prohibited telecommunication equipment, the application will be forwarded to the IMDA for approval and the processing time will depend on the documentation to be submitted.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Singapore
Certification Body: Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: 60 months
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Available with Access Manager
In-Country Testing Requirement: Available with Access Manager
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