Public Consultation on Modernizing Radio Equipment Regulations in Paraguay
The Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones (CONATEL) of Paraguay has issued a public consultation document regarding the comprehensive update of the "Reglamento de Homologación de Equipos y Aparatos de Telecomunicaciones" (Type Approval Regulation). This initiative, supported by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), aims to modernize a regulatory framework that has remained largely unchanged since 2009.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
CONATEL is proposing a shift from its current reactive regulatory approach to a systematic Regulatory Impact Analysis (AIR) methodology. Key proposals include:
Comprehensive Update of Resolution 588/2009: Replacing the outdated 2009 regulation with a framework that reflects modern technological convergence.
Homologation by "Family of Models": Moving away from the mandatory individual model approval to allow variants with identical radio modules to be processed under a single technical file.
Full Digitalization: Implementing a 100% digital platform for submissions, tracking, and the issuance of electronic certificates, replacing the current paper-based and in-person requirements.
Recognition of International Standards: Formalizing the acceptance of test reports and certificates from international bodies such as the FCC, CE/ETSI, and Brazil’s ANATEL.
New Device Categories: Establishing specific technical requirements for emerging technologies, including IoT devices, wearables, drones, and 5G NR equipment.
Impact on Manufacturers and Stakeholders
The proposed changes are expected to significantly affect how manufacturers interact with the Paraguayan market:
Reduction in Administrative Burden: Eliminating the requirement to physically sign every page of a dossier and providing a "single window" for repetitive legal documentation.
Cost Efficiency: Revising the current fee structure (currently fixed at 30% of the minimum wage per model) to potentially reduce costs through family-based approvals.
Faster Market Access: Industry feedback indicates a target for approval timelines to be reduced from the current 2–3 months to approximately 2–3 weeks.
Cybersecurity Compliance: New requirements for connected devices are expected, potentially aligning with international standards like EN 18031 or Brazil’s Act 77/2021.
Technical Parameters and Labeling
The update will address several technical and procedural areas:
Frequency Allocations: Integration of technical parameters for recently enabled bands, including the 3.7–3.8 GHz band for 5G/IMT and the 5.925–6.425 MHz band for Wi-Fi 6E.
Labeling Requirements: Formalization of E-labeling (electronic labeling) for devices with screens, providing a legal alternative to physical labels for small or high-end devices.
Testing Procedures: Clarification of the validity of test reports older than two years and the criteria for equivalence declarations between similar equipment.
Validity Periods: Potential revision of the current 5-year certificate validity to reflect device lifecycles and risk levels.
Feedback and Deadlines
CONATEL is seeking feedback from all interested parties to ensure the new regulations are proportionate and effective.
Consultation Period: From July 24, 2026, to August 2, 2026.
Submission Method: Comments and contributions must be sent via email to consulta_air@conatel.gov.py.
Extension: The period may be extended by up to 5 additional days if deemed necessary by the regulator.
