India Revises Import Regulations for Telecom Equipment Testing

Recently, the Telecommunications Engineering Centre (TEC), under India's Department of Telecommunications, issued a notification announcing partial amendments to the existing regulations regarding the acceptance of test reports from laboratories accredited by signatories to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC). This move aims to further standardize the quality testing process for imported telecom equipment.

According to the latest notification, test reports issued by ILAC signatory laboratories located in countries that do not share a land border with India will be accepted until June 30, 2025, for the following five categories of telecom products that fall under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) framework:

1. Cellular network base station equipment (4G and below)

2. Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT)

3. VHF/UHF radio communication systems

4. 5G cellular network base stations

5. E-band fixed wireless relay systems

However, the TEC has emphasized that test reports from ILAC signatories must be submitted to the MTCTE portal within two years of the testing date. This requirement is intended to ensure that the test results accurately reflect the latest performance and safety standards of the equipment

This revision represents a pragmatic approach by the Indian government to balance domestic and international interests while enhancing quality control. On one hand, the extended validity of ILAC-accredited test reports provides businesses with a transition period. On the other, the strict time limitation for testing ensures that telecom equipment remains aligned with global standards.

Going forward, the TEC plans to strengthen cooperation with customs and other relevant authorities to refine the certification and testing framework for imported telecom equipment, reinforcing network security measures. Simultaneously, increased support for domestic testing institutions will be provided to enhance their capabilities and better serve the industry's development.