Argentina enforces strict compliance requirements for the commercialization of radiofrequency (RF) and electrical devices. The main regulatory bodies involved are ENACOM (Ente Nacional de Comunicaciones) for wireless and telecom products, and IRAM and the Secretary of Domestic Trade for electrical safety.
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
Any equipment that uses radiofrequency—such as mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, or wireless headsets—must obtain type approval from ENACOM before entering the Argentine market.
The approval process involves:
- Application submitted via a local certificate holder (only companies or entities registered in Argentina may apply)
- Submission of technical documentation and international test reports (e.g., CE, FCC)
- Mandatory in-country testing for RF and telecom parameters, performed in ENACOM-accredited laboratories
- Issuance of a homologation certificate
Products must also be labeled with the ENACOM registration number and include a compliance statement in Spanish.
Certificate validity: 3 years
Typical lead times: 6 to 10 weeks, depending on test lab capacity and product category
2. Electrical Safety Certification
Electrical and electronic devices may be subject to mandatory safety certification under the Argentine "Sistema de Certificación de Seguridad Eléctrica." This includes products such as:
- Power supplies
- Kitchen and household appliances
- Lighting equipment
- Cables, plugs, and chargers
The safety certification process includes:
- Product testing at an IRAM-accredited laboratory or recognition of IEC-equivalent results
- Factory inspections (for schemes requiring ongoing surveillance)
- Certification by a recognized body such as IRAM, TÜV Rheinland Argentina, or Bureau Veritas Argentina
- Product marking with the official S-mark (Seguridad Certificada)
Certificate validity: 5 years, with annual follow-up inspections depending on certification scheme
Typical lead times: 6 to 12 weeks, especially if testing and audits are required
Customs and Import Considerations
To legally import and sell electronic products in Argentina:
- Secure ENACOM approval for wireless/telecom equipment
- Obtain electrical safety certification for regulated devices
- Ensure Spanish-language manuals and labels are included
- Use a registered local importer or representative for submissions and customs clearance
Non-compliant products may be seized, fined, or refused entry by customs authorities.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Argentine market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Argentina is essential for legal importation and safe commercialization. Whether you're launching smart devices, telecom hardware, or consumer electronics—compliance is your passport to Argentina.
Need help managing Argentina approval? We are happy to guide you through it!
