Regulatory Consultation: Proposed Type Approval and Conformity Assessment for Telecommunications Equipment in Cambodia
Regulatory Body
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) and the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) have issued proposed regulations regarding the type approval and conformity assessment of radio and telecommunications equipment.
Proposed Changes to Regulations and Standards
The proposed Prakas establishes a new framework for the certification and importation of telecommunications and radio devices. Key changes include:
Risk-Based Classification: Devices are categorized into three levels of risk, each requiring a specific type of approval:
Type A (ATA): For low-risk equipment.
Type B (BTA): For medium-risk equipment, requiring technical reports and TRC review.
Type C (CTA): For high-risk equipment, requiring full testing and rigorous evaluation.
Qualified Agent Certification: Manufacturers must work through "Qualified Agents" for the import and distribution of equipment. These agents must be certified by the TRC and are held responsible for the equipment's compliance.
Digital Application Process: Applications for Type Approval and Import Permits are to be processed through the MPTC/TRC Public Service Platform (online).
Validity Period: Type Approval certificates will remain valid for five years from the date of issuance.
Potential Impact on Manufacturers
Manufacturers and type approval service companies will face several new requirements:
Mandatory Certification: All radio devices must obtain type approval before they can be imported, supplied, or distributed in Cambodia.
Agent Dependency: Foreign manufacturers must appoint a local legal representative or certified qualified agent to handle the certification process.
Testing and Documentation: Depending on the risk level (B or C), manufacturers must provide comprehensive test reports (Safety, EMC, RF, and SAR) from TRC-recognized laboratories.
Compliance Labeling: Equipment must display a TRC compliance label. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring these labels (which may include QR codes) are affixed correctly to the device or packaging.
Technical Parameters and Permitted Bands
The proposal clarifies the technical standards and frequency allocations for various device categories:
Short Range Devices (SRD): Specific standards apply to 446 MHz portable radios, RFID, alarms, and wireless microphones.
Mobile and Broadband: Regulations cover cellular mobile terminals (2G/3G/4G/5G), ADSL/Cable modems, and DVB-T2 integrated receiver decoders.
Prohibited Equipment: The regulation strictly prohibits the public use of radio jamming equipment, military-grade telecommunications gear, and unauthorized scanning receivers.
Exemptions: Certain single-line equipment, such as standard corded telephones and fax modems, may be exempt from standard type approval but may still require ATA registration for import.
Labeling Requirements
A mandatory "Compliance Label" is introduced. The label must contain:
The TRC logo.
A Qualified Agent (QA) identification code.
The year of issuance.
A unique serial or identification number (QA-YYYY-XXXX).
Feedback and Deadlines
Stakeholders, including manufacturers and industry associations, are invited to provide feedback on these proposed procedures and technical standards. While the document outlines the framework for 2026 implementation, specific deadlines for the current consultation phase should be confirmed directly with the TRC Public Service Platform.
