PHNOM PENH: Citing their potential use in online scam operations, as well as environmental risks, the import, sale and distribution of second hand or counterfeit telecommunications equipment has been banned by Cambodian authorities.
The Telecommunications Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) announced on Tuesday (Sept 22) that the ban includes mobile phones, tablets, computers, walkie-talkies and other telecommunications equipment.
A TRC notice warned that such goods could pose risks to public safety and health, disrupt critical national services, harm the environment and could be used in online scams.
The regulator noted that it had observed such items on sale through websites and social media.
Many of the devices available lacked Qualified Agent (QA) certificate, Type Approval (TA) certificates for individual models or import permits issued by the TRC, it said, warning that this meant they are in violation of Articles 15 and 16 of the Telecommunications Law and related regulations.
It warned that such items, particularly mobile phones and walkie-talkies, pose a high risk to critical national services, including public safety, emergency services, national security, aviation, navigation and military radio communications, as they could interfere with the frequencies used by these services.
Other potential hazards include unsafe batteries and charging systems, electrical safety problems and excessive overheating that could lead to fires. The equipment may also exceed permitted electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure levels, potentially affecting users’ health, while failing to meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.
The regulator added that equipment made for use in other markets may also have modified hardware or software that causes poor performance, leaving consumers to lose money and time on low-quality products.
It could also be used by criminals in technology-enabled online scams, while also contributing to environmental harm because the devices ultimately become electronic waste.
The TRC has instructed all businesses to immediately halt illegal activities and take steps to comply with the law.
Businesses have up to 60 days from the date of the notice to apply to the TRC for a Qualified Agent certificate allowing them to legally import, supply and distribute telecommunications equipment.
They must also ensure that they only “import, supply, distribute, advertise and resell” new telecommunications equipment from clear, legitimate, certified sources.
The regulator warned that companies, businesses, wholesalers and retailers that continue the activities will face strict action, including the seizure of illegal telecommunications equipment, fines, closure of websites used for advertising and other measures in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
