Chile has officially published a regulation requiring common interoperability for charging mobile information and telecommunications devices, mandating the use of USB Type-C receptacles. The regulation, issued by the Ministry of Economy, Development and Tourism, applies to a wide range of devices including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, headphones, portable speakers, and more, provided they are rechargeable by cable and have a removable or integrated battery.

The technical requirements are based on international standards IEC 62680-1-2:2024 and IEC 62680-1-3:2024, adopted as Chilean standards NCh-IEC 62680-1-2 and NCh-IEC 62680-1-3. These standards cover USB Power Delivery protocols, connector and cable specifications, and ensure electrical and mechanical compatibility. Devices must have an accessible and operational USB Type-C charging port at all times, though additional charging ports are permitted if the USB Type-C port is present and compliant.

The regulation also introduces strict consumer information obligations. Sellers must clearly indicate, using standardized pictograms on packaging and online platforms, whether a charger is included with the device. They must also provide detailed information on the minimum and maximum charging power requirements, and specify if the device supports fast charging via USB PD or other protocols. All information must be provided in Spanish and be easily accessible to consumers.

Certain devices are excluded, such as those intended exclusively for public security, defense, specialized audiovisual or surveillance cameras, devices powered directly by AC mains, and used or refurbished products manufactured or imported before the regulation's application. The National Consumer Service is tasked with enforcement and must periodically review and propose updates to the device categories and technical standards.

This regulation represents a significant step towards harmonizing device charging standards in Chile, reducing electronic waste, and enhancing consumer protection and transparency.

This regulation is classified as High Impact due to its broad and mandatory application across multiple high-volume product categories and its introduction of new technical and labeling requirements.

Key reasons for High Impact:

• Mandatory USB Type-C charging port for a wide range of devices (phones, tablets, laptops, etc.)
• Adoption of new technical standards (NCh-IEC 62680-1-2 and NCh-IEC 62680-1-3)
• New labeling and consumer information obligations for all affected devices
• Enforcement and periodic review by the National Consumer Service

Who is affected?

Device manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers in Chile

Conclusion

All stakeholders in the mobile and consumer electronics supply chain must review product designs, packaging, and compliance documentation to ensure conformity with the new requirements. Non-compliance may result in enforcement actions and market access restrictions.