Regulatory Compliance News

Mauritania (ARE) Proposes New Rules for Low-Power Devices and Updates National Frequency Allocation Plan

The Regulatory Authority of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania (ARE) has introduced two major regulatory updates that significantly impact the use of radio spectrum and short-range wireless devices in the country. These developments include the issuance of Decision No. 1100/2025 on low-power devices and the publication of the National Frequency Allocation Table 2025 (TNABF 2025).

Decision No. 1100/2025 – Low-Power and Short-Range Devices

Issued under Article 28 of Law No. 2013-025 on electronic communications (as amended in 2022), Decision No. 1100/2025 formalizes the conditions under which low-power and short-range radio devices may operate without prior authorization. These devices are defined as transmitters (with or without receivers) intended for short-range communications with limited interference potential.

Free use is permitted provided that devices:

• • Remain within the maximum emission limits specified in Annex 1 of the decision.
• • Do not cause harmful interference to authorized radio services.
• • Do not use amplification systems enabling operation over public land.
• • Do not connect to RLANs owned by separate legal entities.

If interference with licensed services is detected, users must immediately cease operation upon instruction from the Regulatory Authority.

Marketing and reseller obligations

• • Ensure devices comply with Decision No. 42/2021/AR/CNR on terminal equipment and radio installations.
• • Clearly inform customers of applicable operating conditions and usage limitations.

Monitoring and enforcement

ARE retains the authority to inspect devices at any time. Non-compliant equipment may be sealed or dismantled at the user’s expense. Operating conditions may also be revised unilaterally due to interference issues, national safety requirements, emergency situations, or changes to the national frequency plan or international regulations.

National Frequency Allocation Table 2025 (TNABF 2025)

In parallel, ARE has published the updated National Frequency Allocation Table 2025, covering frequencies from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz. The new plan aligns Mauritania’s spectrum framework with ITU Region 1 allocations and regional coordination agreements, while reinforcing ARE’s exclusive authority over spectrum licensing.

• • Introduction of new bands to support emerging technologies such as 5G and IMT.
• • Expanded unlicensed spectrum for industrial, scientific, and medical applications.
• • Strengthened protections for critical maritime, aeronautical, and emergency services.
• • Clear national rules (MTN.x) defining local licensing conditions and restrictions.

Together, Decision No. 1100/2025 and TNABF 2025 modernize Mauritania’s spectrum and device regulatory landscape, enabling innovation and wider wireless adoption while ensuring effective interference management and protection of critical communications services.