Algeria Publishes Executive Decree on Certification of Electronic Communications Equipment

The Government of Algeria, through the Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANF) and the Autorité de Régulation de la Poste et des Communications Électroniques (ARPCE), has published an executive decree establishing a legal framework for the certification (homologation) of electronic communications equipment. The decree aims to ensure that devices comply with national technical standards, safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and frequency regulations before being imported, manufactured, or distributed in Algeria.

The decree applies to terminal equipment, radio stations, and other wireless installations, including devices intended to connect to public communication networks. Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must submit samples for testing, provide technical and administrative documentation, and obtain a certificate of conformity. TAC certification is required for cellular devices.

Key requirements include formal procedures for evaluation and testing, mandatory labeling of certified equipment, record-keeping of compliance, and market surveillance through inspections and collaboration with customs. Equipment imported temporarily for professional, scientific, sports, or humanitarian purposes is exempt. The decree strengthens compliance, protects network integrity, and ensures that electronic communication devices meet recognized technical and safety standards

This regulatory development represents a medium-impact compliance update for manufacturers, importers, and users of electronic communications equipment in Algeria. It introduces mandatory certification (homologation) requirements to ensure technical conformity, safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and compliance with national frequency regulations.

• Mandatory certification procedures for communication equipment including terminal devices, radio stations, and wireless installations
• Submission of samples for technical testing by accredited laboratories and customs procedures for imports
• Requirement to provide detailed technical and administrative documentation for conformity verification
• Certificates valid for five years with requirements for renewal and strict market surveillance by regulatory authorities
• Applies to manufacturers, importers, distributors, and end-users connected to public electronic communication networks
• Exemptions for temporary imports under certain professional, scientific, or humanitarian purposes
• Enhances control over market entry and post-market compliance, protecting network integrity and user safety

Who?

• Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of electronic communication devices
• Regulatory authorities (ANF and ARPCE) responsible for conformity assessment and market surveillance
• Customs services cooperating in sample collection and compliance enforcement
• Public and private entities using certified communication equipment

Conclusion

Algeria’s executive decree on homologation of electronic communications equipment establishes a structured and legally binding certification framework ensuring that only compliant and safe devices enter the market. While it aligns Algeria with international telecom and safety standards, it requires involved parties to prepare for new conformity procedures, documentation submission, and cooperation with multiple regulatory bodies. The decree strengthens technical and regulatory oversight but is less focused on national security risks compared to decrees targeting sensitive state information.