Algeria Type Approval: New Framework for Telecom Equipment

The Government of Algeria has introduced new regulatory procedures for the approval of electronic communication equipment through Executive Decree No. 26-97, signed on 31 January 2026 and published in Official Gazette No. 13 on 15 February 2026.

The new regulation modernises the country’s certification process for telecommunications equipment by extending certificate validity, introducing a digital application system, and strengthening transparency measures. These updates are particularly important for manufacturers and importers planning to place electronic communication devices on the Algerian market.

The new regulatory framework for Algeria type approval introduces important updates for manufacturers and importers of electronic communication equipment. Under Executive Decree No. 26-97, the Algeria type approval process now includes a five-year validity period for certificates, a digital application platform to streamline submissions, and stricter requirements for product sample delivery and device labeling. These changes aim to modernize the Algeria type approval system, improve transparency, and ensure that telecommunications equipment entering the Algerian market complies with national regulatory standards.

Algeria Type Approval Framework: Key Regulatory Changes

The new framework introduces several updates aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in the certification process for telecommunications equipment.

Key changes include:

• Extended certificate validity: Type approval certificates are now valid for five years, compared to the previous three-year validity period.

• Recognition of existing certificates: Certificates issued under the previous framework remain valid until their original expiration date.

• Digital application platform: A new electronic system will streamline the submission and review of type approval applications.

• Product sample requirement: Product samples must be delivered within five working days after the application is submitted.

• Publication of approved equipment: Approved devices will be listed on the official websites of the relevant authorities.

• Mandatory labeling: Equipment must display the official approval label on the device or, if not feasible, in the user manual or product packaging.

  
  

These measures aim to reduce administrative burdens while improving regulatory oversight of telecommunications equipment entering the Algerian market.

Extended Validity of Type Approval Certificates

One of the most notable changes in the new regulation is the extension of the validity period for type approval certificates.

Under the previous rules, certificates were valid for three years. The updated decree extends this validity to five years, allowing manufacturers to maintain market access for a longer period before renewal is required.

This change is expected to reduce administrative workload for both regulatory authorities and manufacturers.

Digitalisation of the Application Process

The introduction of an electronic application system represents a major step toward modernising Algeria’s regulatory procedures.

The digital platform is intended to:

• simplify administrative processes

• accelerate the review of applications

• improve communication between applicants and regulatory authorities

  
  

This initiative aligns with Algeria’s broader efforts to digitalise regulatory processes in the telecommunications sector.

Product Sample Submission Requirements

Under the new framework, applicants must submit product samples within five working days after submitting the type approval application.

Failure to deliver the required samples within the specified timeframe may result in the rejection of the application. Manufacturers should therefore ensure that logistics arrangements are in place when submitting approval requests.

Publication of Approved Equipment

To improve transparency, the new decree introduces the publication of approved equipment on official government platforms.

Once certification is granted, approved devices will be listed on the websites of the relevant Algerian authorities, including:

• the National Frequencies Agency (ANF)

• the Regulatory Authority for Post and Electronic Communications (ARPCE)

  
  

This public listing will allow stakeholders and market participants to easily verify whether a device has obtained regulatory approval.

Labeling Requirements for Approved Devices

The new regulation also establishes specific requirements for the type approval label.

The approval mark must be placed directly on the device whenever technically possible. If this is not feasible, the label may instead appear in the user manual or on the product packaging.

All approval markings must follow the format defined by the Algerian regulatory authorities to demonstrate compliance with national requirements.