In the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), wireless and telecom equipment must comply with national spectrum regulations and technical standards. The key regulatory authority for telecom and radio products is the Agence de Régulation des Postes et des Communications Électroniques (ARPCE). Electrical and electronic equipment is also expected to meet basic international safety standards during customs clearance.
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
All radiofrequency (RF) and telecommunications devices—including mobile phones, routers, two-way radios, and Bluetooth equipment—require type approval from ARPCE before being sold or used in the country.
The typical type approval process involves:
- Application submission by a local representative or importer
- Provision of technical documentation:
- Frequency and transmission power details
- CE, FCC, or other international test reports
- User manuals and product images
- ARPCE administrative review
- Issuance of a type approval certificate
Local testing is not required, and international reports are generally accepted as the technical basis for evaluation.
Certificate validity: Commonly valid for 3 years
Typical lead times: 3 to 5 weeks, depending on product category and documentation quality
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Compliance
While there is no dedicated national certification program for electrical safety, customs authorities may request proof of compliance for imported electronics. Importers are advised to provide:
- CE marking or IEC-equivalent reports
- Manufacturer's declaration of conformity
- Labels and manuals in French, the official language
Certain high-risk categories (such as power adapters, kitchen appliances, and lighting equipment) may be more closely scrutinized during importation.
Certificate validity: Not formally defined; based on supporting documentation and customs discretion
Typical lead times: 1 to 2 weeks, only if additional documentation is requested
Customs and Import Considerations
To legally import and market electronic or telecom equipment in the Republic of the Congo:
- Secure ARPCE type approval for any device with RF capability
- Provide documentation for electrical safety and EMC compliance
- Include product labeling and instructions in French
- Use a local importer or registered business to facilitate approval and customs processes
Non-compliant or unapproved products may face customs delays or be denied entry altogether.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Congolese market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in the Republic of the Congo is essential for legal importation and product success. Whether you're launching telecom gear, smart devices, or consumer electronics—compliance is your passport to Congo.
Need help managing Congo approval? We are happy to guide you through it!
