Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has officially issued QCVN 134:2024/BTTTT, a national technical regulation establishing mandatory Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) limits for hand-held and body-worn wireless communication devices. The regulation, promulgated with Circular No. 19/2024/TT-BTTTT on December 31, 2024, aims to protect public health by limiting electromagnetic exposure from devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and DECT cordless phone handsets.

The regulation applies to wireless devices with power greater than 20 mW and intended for use within 200 mm of the human body, excluding medical implant devices. Key SAR limits are set at 2 W/kg (averaged over 10g tissue) for head and body, and 4 W/kg for limbs, within the 30 MHz to 6 GHz frequency range. The regulation aligns with international standards, referencing IEC 62209-1528:2020 and ICNIRP guidelines.

Implementation is phased: voluntary application for testing and conformity certification begins February 15, 2025; mandatory compliance for mobile phones starts July 1, 2026, and for all other covered products from July 1, 2027. Mobile phones require certification of conformity by MIC-designated bodies, while laptops, tablets, and DECT handsets require a declaration of conformity based on test results.

Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must ensure compliance before market entry. The regulation introduces clear responsibilities, technical requirements, and post-market controls, with MIC and its agencies overseeing enforcement. This move brings Vietnam in line with global best practices for wireless device safety.

This is a High Impact regulatory change. Key reasons for high impact:

• Mandatory SAR compliance for a wide range of wireless devices (mobile phones, laptops, tablets, DECT handsets)
• Introduction of new technical limits and testing requirements
• Certification of conformity required for mobile phones; declaration of conformity for other devices
• Phased but strict implementation deadlines (2026 for phones, 2027 for others)
• Affects all manufacturers, importers, and distributors in Vietnam

Who is affected?

Device manufacturers, importers, local representatives, certification bodies, test labs, and distributors of wireless communication devices.

Conclusion:

All stakeholders must review product portfolios, update compliance strategies, and prepare for new certification and testing obligations to ensure continued market access in Vietnam.