Regulatory Compliance News

Niger Implements New Mandatory Regulation for Terminal & Radio Equipment Approvals

Niger’s Communications Regulatory Authority (ARCEP Niger) has introduced a new regulatory framework for the approval of terminal and radio equipment under Decision No. 0000 11/ARCEP/CNRCEP/25. The regulation officially entered into force on October 8, 2025 and applies immediately — without any transitional period — affecting all new submissions and ongoing approval projects.

According to additional guidance published through industry sources, the new framework strengthens market controls, formalizes type approval processes, and reinforces responsibility on manufacturers and local representatives seeking to place products on the Nigerien market.

Key Requirements

• • Mandatory ARCEP Marking – All approved equipment must bear a compliance label that exactly matches the information on the ARCEP certificate.
• • Physical Sample Submission – Applicants must submit a physical sample of each terminal device for evaluation; no exceptions are stated.
• • Local Entity Requirement – Applications must be filed through a locally registered Nigerien company acting as the responsible representative.
• • In-Person Submission – All application packages must be physically delivered to ARCEP headquarters; electronic submissions are not accepted.
• • Certificate Validity: 3 Years – Approvals are valid for three years, with renewals permitted starting two months before expiration.
• • No Transitional Period – The regulation is fully effective immediately, impacting both new applications and those already in progress.

What This Means for Manufacturers

The new ARCEP system significantly raises procedural and administrative requirements for telecom and radio equipment entering Niger. Manufacturers should prepare for longer lead times, mandatory sample handling, and the need for a dependable local representative to manage filings and in-person submissions.