Regulatory Compliance News

Mexico Streamlines Telecom Authorizations and Transitions Regulatory Oversight to CRT

Mexico’s telecom regulatory landscape has undergone significant administrative shifts aimed at simplifying market access and modernizing regulatory procedures. Building upon public consultation initiatives launched by the Instituto Federal de Telecomunicaciones (IFT) to streamline authorization rules under the national telecommunications framework, Mexico enacted broader legislative reforms under the new Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law. This legislative update formally initiates a transition of regulatory authority from the IFT to a newly established governing body, the Comisión de Regulación en Telecomunicaciones (CRT).

The administrative modernization initiative focuses on digitizing submission workflows, standardizing authorization timelines, and reducing procedural hurdles for original equipment manufacturers and network operators seeking spectrum and service permits. Under CRT oversight, mandatory homologation and equipment certification requirements remain in force, but procedural updates—including streamlined low-power device regulations under Technical Provision IFT-016-2024—require third-party testing in accredited laboratories for short-range radio devices operating between 30 MHz and 3 GHz. Additionally, implementation timelines for mandatory physical and electronic equipment labeling have been adjusted to provide manufacturers and importers with extended preparation periods.

While existing IFT technical provisions remain valid during the operational transition, equipment vendors and telecommunications suppliers must prepare for new CRT-formatted certification numbers and updated administrative guidelines. Stakeholders bringing radio frequency and telecommunications equipment into Mexico are advised to monitor CRT administrative announcements closely and account for potential short-term processing lead times as homologation services shift to the new regulatory portal.