Burundi Telecom Type Approval Rules Redefined
The Government of Burundi has enacted Ordonnance Ministérielle No. 580/01.1, issued on 17 April 2025, establishing new requirements for the approval, sale, and use of radio and telecommunications terminal equipment. This ordinance was reinforced by an official communiqué from ARCT (Agence de Régulation et de Contrôle des Télécommunications), dated 26 June 2025, confirming that the regulation is now fully in effect nationwide.
This legal framework sets out the conditions for type approval (homologation), import authorization, vendor certification, and market surveillance, with the aim of reducing counterfeit devices, improving device safety, and promoting fair market practices .
Key Requirements Now in Effect
Any company or individual intending to import, distribute, or sell telecom or radio devices in Burundi must:
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Obtain type approval from ARCT before devices are connected to public networks
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Secure import authorization prior to customs clearance
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Hold a vendor certificate from ARCT to legally sell telecom products
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Submit a detailed application file, including technical specs, conformity documents, and product samples
Expanded Oversight and Compliance Obligations
The ordinance also introduces:
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Mandatory registration of approved equipment in a national database
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ARCT-led inspections and verification of non-approved products
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Cooperation with international labs via Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) for test reports
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Implementation of a consumer platform to verify the authenticity of terminal devices
Manufacturers, vendors, or end users requesting approval must first be authorized by ARCT. All existing procedures must now align with this revised process.
Fines and Enforcement
Non-compliance comes with serious consequences. Violations, such as importing or selling devices without type approval or vendor certification, can result in fines of up to 5,000,000 BIF per offense . Devices may be seized, and vendor authorizations revoked.
How we can help
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Impact Assessment
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Technical Standards? ❌ No
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Type Approval & Market Access? ✅ Yes
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Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ✅ Yes
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Spectrum Management? ❌ No
