On October 21, 2026, ZICTA published draft revised Type Approval Guidelines for electronic communications equipment. The draft introduces high- and low-risk equipment classes, conditional customs release with post-clearance checks, quarantine at approved facilities for up to 60 days, expanded marking and product-information requirements, and revised prohibited and exempt equipment lists.

It would replace the 2022 Guidelines when finalized. Comments are due November 20, 2026; no new requirement is yet enforceable from the draft.

Impact

Impact assessment: High.

Key reasons: The draft is a broad rewrite of the market-access process and could change classification, customs release, quarantine, marking, manuals and approval evidence across most ICT product portfolios.

Who is affected?

ICT manufacturers, importers, distributors, local representatives, logistics providers, customs brokers, test laboratories, approval consultants and Zambian network operators.

Conclusion:

Treat the draft as high priority, classify the portfolio against the proposed risk lists, gap-assess labels, manuals and approval evidence, and evaluate customs and quarantine contingencies. Submit comments by November 20, 2026, but continue applying the 2022 Guidelines until final publication.