WORLDWIDE HOMOLOGATION, REGULATORY COMPLIANCE, TYPE APPROVAL SPECIALIST

Vietnam MIC Implements New Regulations for Short Range Device Radio Equipment – VIETNAM

Vietnam - Type Approval Regulatory news

Vietnam

07-03-2024

Vietnam MIC Implements New Regulations for Short Range Device Radio Equipment

The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has issued a new circular, QCVN 55: 2023/BTTTT, pertaining to Short Range Device (SRD) radio equipment operating within the frequency range of 9 kHz to 25 MHz.
 
This updated standard, QCVN 55:2023/BTTTT, supersedes the previous QCVN 55:2011/BTTTT standard and is slated to become mandatory by July 1, 2024.
 
Certificates obtained under the old standard will no longer be valid after July 1, 2024. To maintain compliance and continue importing, retesting in accordance with the new standard is imperative, and certificates must be updated accordingly.
 
The official document for QCVN 55:2023/BTTTT

Bocra Introduces Official Type Approval Exemptions – BOTSWANA

Botswana - Type Approval Regulatory news

Botswana

07-03-2024

BOCRA Introduces Official Type Approval Exemptions

“Bocra,” the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority, has announced its intention to provide official Type Approval Exemptions. This means that existing exemptions can undergo a re-application process to obtain formal exemption certificates.
 
It’s important to note that the re-application for official exemptions is voluntary. Meanwhile, existing exemptions will continue to remain valid.
 
These exemptions will be granted following the standard Type Approval Procedure.
The following equipment is not subject to approval:
 
  1. Personal computing devices such as desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and IoT devices equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth transceivers.
  2. Receiving equipment including FM/MW/SW radios, televisions, satellite decoders, and set-top boxes.
  3. Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE) embedded in vehicles, such as Bluetooth, navigation systems, remote sensors, and car keys. However, it’s essential to ensure that such RTTE operates within designated frequency bands.
  4. Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) terminals marked with “ITU.”

New Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal – MEXICO

Mexico Regulatory approval

Mexico

30-01-2024

New Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal

The Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) issued the non-binding opinion on the Regulatory Impact Analysis of the “Guidelines for the use of the IFT seal on approved products, equipment, devices or apparatus intended for telecommunications or broadcasting.”
 
These guidelines have provisions and specifications for using a seal with a graphic element to easily identify certified products through marking or labeling.
 
The IFT Seal is part of the IFT’s graphic identity and must be printed in 100% positive black or 100% negative black, while respecting protection areas and minimum printing dimensions. Homologation Certificate holders, subsidiaries, and importers, where applicable, must use the IFT Seal while adhering to the established specifications.
 
A transition period of 180 days has been set from the date of publication in the official journal. During this time, the regulations will only apply to products certified after the effective date. Products that have previously obtained a Homologation Certificate can retain their existing IFT marking.
 
 

Trinidad and Tobago Telecommunications Authority Implements Updated Regulations for Equipment Certification – Trinidad and Tobago

TATT Regulatory Authority Approval

Trinidad and Tobago

30-01-2024

Trinidad and Tobago Telecommunications Authority Implements Updated Regulations for Equipment Certification

The Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) has recently introduced updated regulations regarding the certification of telecommunications equipment. According to the new rules outlined in the “Equipment Standardisation and Certification Framework for the Telecommunications and Broadcasting Sectors,” certified equipment must undergo recertification once the term of the previously certified device has expired.

Under the revised regulations, equipment certificates will now have a validity period of five years. However, if the operating parameters of the devices remain unchanged, the recertification process will be expedited, ensuring a smoother and more efficient procedure.

Stakeholders and industry participants are encouraged to review the details of the updated framework, which can be found in the official document released by TATT here.

Qatar and Korea Sign MOU for Development of Radio Spectrum Management – Qatar

Qatar - Type Approval Regulatory news

Qatar

30-01-2024

Qatar and Korea Sign MOU for Development of Radio Spectrum Management

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of Qatar and the Central Radio Management Service (CRMS) of the Korean Ministry of Science and ICT have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the development of radio spectrum management. The MOU reflects the two parties’ recognition of the significance of cooperation for the efficient use of radio frequencies and the development of quality radio communication services. The MOU also covers cooperation in radio spectrum management field according to the changes of radio spectrum environment, joint response to radio spectrum monitoring methods including satellite radio monitoring, and exchange education and training experience to promote human resources in the radio spectrum management field. 

Official Announcement

NTRA granted TE a 15-year license for 5G services; Tests followed. – EGYPT

Egypt - Type Approval Regulatory news

Egypt

30-01-2024

NTRA granted TE a 15-year license for 5G services; Tests followed.

Telecom Egypt (TE) is set to conduct experimental 5G operations in five key locations to assess service quality, CEO Mohamed Nasr announced. The move follows the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority’s approval of TE’s 15-year license for 5G services, valued at USD 150 million. Nasr expects the financial impact to reflect in TE’s results by the end of 2024. As part of Egypt’s privatization initiative, TE aims to generate USD 5 billion in revenue by offering 35 state-owned companies to strategic investors by June 2024. The 5G trials position TE as a key player in Egypt’s evolving telecommunications landscape.

Azerbaijan AZAK Suspends 2 CBs for Unauthorized Certificate Issuance – AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan-Type Approval Regulatory news

Azerbaijan

30-01-2024

Azerbaijan AZAK Suspends 2 CBs for Unauthorized Certificate Issuance

The Azerbaijan Accreditation Center (AZAK) has suspended two Conformity Assessment Bodies (CBs), “AZTRUSTSERT” LLC and “AZ-QUALITY CERT” LLC, which are no longer authorized to issue certificates.
You can find the updated Accreditation Base list here.

Thailand Implements New Labeling Standards for Personal Computers and Related Equipment – THAILAND

Thailand Regulatory Authority

Thailand

30-01-2024

Thailand Implements New Labeling Standards for Personal Computers and Related Equipment

In a move aimed at enhancing consumer awareness and protection, the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) in Thailand has recently issued a statement introducing comprehensive labeling standards for personal computers and related equipment. The new guidelines, effective from November 1, 2023, apply exclusively to products sold within the country.

The key requirement of the new standards is that product labels must prominently feature the Thai language, ensuring accessibility for local consumers. However, the guidelines also allow for additional information to be provided in foreign languages to cater to the diverse consumer base.

The detailed label for personal computers must include the following information, providing consumers with a clear and transparent understanding of the product:

  1. Name of the type of goods
  2. Manufacturer’s name or trademark registered in Thailand
  3. Name or trademark of the person who ordered or imported it into Thailand
  4. Country of manufacture (for imported goods)
  5. Location of the producer or importer in Thailand
  6. Size, dimensions, quantity, volume, or weight of the goods
  7. Product details, including screen size, CPU, GPU, memory, storage, and operating system
  8. Instructions for use
  9. Recommendations for use or storage
  10. Date of manufacture
  11. Information about product development, production, and spare parts
  12. Product quality guarantee period, spare parts reserve, and service center contact information (if applicable)

The OCPB emphasizes that these labeling standards are designed to empower consumers by providing them with comprehensive information about the products they purchase, fostering transparency and informed decision-making.

For businesses involved in the manufacturing, ordering, or importing of personal computers and related equipment in Thailand, compliance with these labeling standards is now mandatory. The guidelines are set to contribute to a more accountable and consumer-friendly marketplace.

The official announcement and detailed guidelines can be accessed on the Office of the Consumer Protection Board’s website. Stakeholders and the general public are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new standards, and businesses are advised to ensure swift compliance to avoid any regulatory implications.

AIVF and IMDA propose draft Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI – SINGAPORE

AIVF and IMDA propose draft Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI

AI Verify Foundation (AIVF) and Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) have proposed a draft Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI that expands on the existing Model Governance Framework for Traditional AI. The proposed framework aims to create a trusted environment for end-users to use AI confidently and safely while allowing space for cutting-edge innovation. It integrates ideas from the earlier discussion paper on Generative AI and provides initial guidance on suggested practices for safety evaluation of Generative AI models. The framework looks at nine proposed dimensions to support a comprehensive and trusted AI ecosystem.

For more details, please refer to the proposed draft framework.

Official Announcement

CSR Singapore updates the Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme CLS (IoT) – SINGAPORE

Singapore - Type Approval Regulatory news

Singapore

26-09-2023

CSR Singapore updates the Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme CLS (IoT)

In a significant move to enhance the Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme for IoT (CLS(IoT)) program, several impactful changes will be implemented from September 22, 2023. These changes are designed to elevate security provisions, simplify the application process, and ensure a more robust certification framework for developers and manufacturers.

Key Changes and Improvements:

  1. Approval of CLS(IoT) Testing Laboratories (TLs):

    • Effective from September 22, 2023, CLS(IoT) Testing Laboratories (TLs) are now authorized to conduct reviews of the declaration of conformity for all CLS(IoT) levels. Developers and manufacturers can engage CLS(IoT) TLs to facilitate a comprehensive review process. Further details are available on the CLS(IoT) publications page.
  2. Introduction of CCC SP-151-4 CLS(IoT) Assessment Methodology v1.0:

    • A new publication, CCC SP-151-4 CLS(IoT) Assessment Methodology v1.0, has been unveiled. This document serves as a guide, offering clarifications on the specific requirements of each security provision. It outlines what is expected from IoT devices to meet security provisions, aiding assessors in evaluating evidence.
  3. CLS(IoT) Application Process Moves to GoBusiness Portal:

    • The CLS(IoT) application process has transitioned entirely to the GoBusiness Portal. This shift is aimed at streamlining application intake, allowing manufacturers and developers to make payments directly on the site, thus reducing project lead times.
  4. Revised Documents for CLS(IoT) Applications:

  5. Enhanced Binary Scan for CLS(IoT) Level 3 and Level 4:

    • The binary scan, a mandatory requirement for CLS(IoT) Level 3 and Level 4, has been enhanced. Developers and testing laboratories must now ensure thorough scrutiny, addressing all known vulnerabilities in the device’s software components and declared components in the Software Bill of Materials (SBOM). Detailed information is available in the CCC SP-151-2 CLS(IoT) Scheme Specifications v1.3 publication.

These updates within the CLS(IoT) program signify a commitment to continual improvement, security, and efficiency. Developers and manufacturers are encouraged to explore the CLS(IoT) publications page for comprehensive insights into the recent advancements in the certification process.