Argentina Telecom Certification Reform marks a significant shift in how telecommunications equipment is approved and commercialized in the country. Through Resolution 57/2026, Argentina’s National Telecom Regulator (ENACOM) has redefined the certification and market access framework, transitioning from direct evaluation to a third-party Certification Agency model.
This update introduces structural changes that impact manufacturers, importers, and representatives placing telecom equipment on the Argentine market. Below, we outline the scope, new certification pathways, and implementation timeline under the updated RAMATEL system.
Argentina Telecom Certification Reform: Key Structural Changes
The most notable change under the Argentina Telecom Certification Reform is ENACOM’s move from direct product evaluation to oversight of independent Certification Agencies (Agencias de Certificación).
Under the new framework, ENACOM will:
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Establish technical standards
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Oversee the certification system
Meanwhile, recognized Certification Agencies will:
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Review laboratory test reports
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Evaluate technical documentation
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Issue Certificates of Conformity
These Certificates of Conformity are now required to register telecom equipment in RAMATEL and obtain market access approval.
Scope and Equipment Classification
The updated framework applies to any entity manufacturing, importing, or representing telecom equipment in Argentina.
Equipment is divided into two categories:
Class A – General Public Use
Consumer devices intended for commercialization to the general public, including:
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Cell phones
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Tablets
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Wi-Fi routers
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Bluetooth devices
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IoT sensors
Class B – Professional Use
Equipment intended for professional applications, such as:
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2G/3G/4G/5G base stations
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AM/FM/TV transmitters
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Transportation radars
Importantly, this classification should not be confused with EMC Class A and Class B distinctions.
Homologation vs. Authorization
Resolution 57/2026 clearly distinguishes between two registration pathways:
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Homologation: Mandatory for commercialization (sale, lease, distribution).
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Authorization: Required strictly for private use, without commercialization rights.
For Authorization, a manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity is sufficient. However, Homologation requires a Certificate of Conformity issued by a recognized Certification Agency, followed by ENACOM’s final approval.
Additionally, a Local Representative or Importer must be registered in the RAMATEL “Registro de Actividades” before applying for Homologation.
Testing Schemes and Ongoing Surveillance
Testing requirements differ depending on equipment classification:
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Class A: Follows ISO/IEC 17067 Scheme Type 2. This includes initial laboratory testing and ongoing market surveillance every two years.
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Class B: Follows ISO/IEC 17067 Scheme Type 1a, requiring initial laboratory testing only.
Moreover, the regulation allows registration of product families sharing the same brand, manufacturer, technology, functionality, and radio frequency specifications. Only the most representative model must be tested.
Implementation Timeline
The new RAMATEL regulations enter into force on September 1, 2026.
Current valid RAMATEL registrations will remain valid for three years from the publication date of Resolution 57/2026. After that period, they must transition to the new Certification Agency framework.
Given these changes, companies are advised to review their existing product portfolios and upcoming launches to ensure alignment with the new third-party certification and surveillance requirements.
Impact Assessment
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Technical Standards?
No -
Type Approval & Market Access?
Yes -
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance?
Yes -
Spectrum Management?
No
