Tunisia requires regulatory approval for most wireless, telecom, and electrical/electronic products before they can be imported, marketed, or used in the country. The main authorities involved are the Instance Nationale des Télécommunications (INT) for telecommunications and radio frequency regulation, and the Institut National de la Normalisation et de la Propriété Industrielle (INNORPI) for safety and technical conformity.
Key certification areas include:
- Type approval for wireless and telecom devices
- Electrical safety and EMC compliance
- Labeling and customs documentation
1. Type Approval for Wireless and Telecom Devices
All radiofrequency (RF) and telecom devices—such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth headsets, and IoT devices—require type approval from the INT prior to import and sale.
The approval process generally involves:
- Submission of technical documentation (user manual, technical specs, CE/FCC reports)
- Review for compliance with Tunisian RF spectrum and telecom regulations
- Issuance of a type approval certificate
- Registration for customs clearance
Local testing is not required; international test reports (CE, FCC) are accepted.
2. Electrical Safety and EMC Compliance
Electrical and electronic devices must comply with national safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards. INNORPI is responsible for managing these certifications, which are based on international standards (IEC, ISO).
Requirements include:
- Declaration of Conformity (based on CE/IEC standards)
- Safety and EMC test reports
- Product labeling in Arabic and/or French
- Possibly INNORPI certification for regulated categories (e.g. appliances)
In most cases, international certification is accepted for customs clearance if supported by a local importer.
Customs and Import Requirements
To legally import products into Tunisia:
- Obtain type approval from INT for RF/telecom equipment
- Provide safety/EMC documentation (or INNORPI certificate if applicable)
- Ensure labeling is compliant with local language and technical requirements
- Work with a local importer or representative for documentation submission
Non-compliance may lead to customs delays, rejection, or fines.
Closing remarks
Certification ensures not only regulatory compliance but also consumer trust and market access. Companies planning to enter the Tunisian market should budget time and resources for these approvals early in their go-to-market process. Getting certified in Tunisia is essential for legal market entry and consumer safety. Whether you're launching smart devices, RF equipment, or electronic appliances—compliance is your passport to Tunisia.
