Global Regulatory Intelligence

Panama's telecom regulator ASEP has opened Public Forum No. 01-26 to gather opinions on how the 6 GHz frequency band (5925-7125 MHz) should be used a decision it deferred in 2025 while adding new mid-band spectrum for 5G. The outcome will shape whether Wi-Fi, licensed mobile, or a split of both governs the band, with direct consequences for how wireless devices are certified and approved for the Panamanian market. Here's what equipment makers and compliance teams should track

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has released SRSP-310.7, Issue 5 for comment, revising the technical and channel-plan requirements for fixed line-of-sight microwave systems in the 10.7–11.7 GHz band. The draft adds channels in the 11.075–11.2 GHz and 11.575–11.7 GHz sub-bands and removes redundant provisions. Stakeholders may submit comments until August 28, 2026.

On May 13, 2026, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) launched a preliminary consultation (SMSE-008-26) on Mobile Satellite Service developments and the use of L and S band spectrum. Alongside the consultation, ISED imposed an immediate moratorium on licensing commercial MSS systems and ancillary terrestrial component services in key mid-band segments. Stakeholders can submit comments until June 29, 2026. Here's what manufacturers and importers need to k

On May 29, 2026, Mexico's Secretaría de Economía published a DOF agreement removing the simplified courier and parcel import exemption for cell phones. Smartphones and other mobile phones under tariff codes 8517.13.01, 8517.14.91 and 8517.18.99 must now demonstrate compliance with safety standard NOM-001-SCFI-2018 and commercial-information standard NOM-024-SCFI-2013 at the point of entry. A SNICE bulletin defers the obligation to July 1, 2026, giving importers a short window

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has published SRSP-321.2, Issue 1, the updated Standard Radio System Plan governing fixed line-of-sight radio systems in the 21.2–23.6 GHz band. Issued in April 2026, it replaces SRSP-321.8 and consolidates the previously separate sub-bands while introducing new 60, 80 and 100 MHz channel bandwidths and revised antenna radiation pattern envelopes. Manufacturers and operators of microwave backhaul equipment should revi

The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has published the Bahamas National Spectrum Plan 2026–2029 (ECS 04/2026), the country's fourth spectrum framework and its first to fully integrate WRC-23 outcomes. The Plan revises the National Frequency Allocation Table to align with the 2024 ITU Radio Regulations, opens new IMT bands at 3.3–3.4 GHz, 3.6–3.8 GHz and 6.425–7.125 GHz, and identifies spectrum for HAPS/HIBS and Earth Stations in Motion. Here is what manuf

Cuba's Ministry of Communications issued Resolution 1/2026 and Resolution 2/2026, published in Extraordinary Official Gazette No. 66 on May 21, 2026. These rules overhaul the country's Cuba telecommunications import regulations, introduce a two-tier technical authorization system for ICT equipment, mandate homologation for commercial imports, and bring all drones under regulatory control for the first time. Commercial rules take effect around July 20, 2026.

The FCC published a Final Rule on May 15, 2026, creating a fast-track priority review process for devices tested in FCC Trusted Test Labs — facilities located in the U.S. or countries with Mutual Recognition Agreements. Effective June 15, 2026, the rule incentivizes domestic testing, strengthens national security, and introduces new disclosure requirements for test labs and Telecommunications Certification Bodies (TCBs).

Costa Rica's Superintendency of Telecommunications (SUTEL) has opened two parallel public consultations to establish the administrative and technical framework for Standard Power (SP) operations in the 5925–7125 MHz (6 GHz) band under Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) systems. Case files GCO-DGC-APA-00832-2026 (AFC database administrator accreditation) and GCO-DGC-HPE-00833-2026 (Standard Power device type-approval) are open for comment until June 1, 2026.

On May 14, 2026, Canada's ISED published major updates to RSS-287 (Issue 4) and RSS-288 (Issue 2), revising certification requirements for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELT), Personal Locator Beacons (PLB), Maritime Survivor Locator Devices (MSLD), and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Manufacturers must review DSC, power, and frequency changes to maintain market compliance in Canada.

On May 18, 2026, Mexico published the National Radio Spectrum Program 2026-2030 (PNER) in the Diario Oficial de la Federación. The program sets a roadmap to expand mobile spectrum from 695 MHz to 1,095 MHz by 2030, restructures frequency assignment, and introduces coverage-based incentives. Manufacturers of wireless and radio-equipped products selling in Mexico must prepare for new spectrum allocations, updated bands, and evolving homologation requirements over the next five

The U.S. Department of Defense officially released MIL-STD-461H on April 17, 2026, superseding MIL-STD-461G (2015). This new revision introduces targeted updates to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test requirements for electronic, electrical, and electromechanical equipment across land, air, sea, and space platforms. Key changes affect CE101, CS101, CS114, RE101, RE102, and RS103 procedures — impacting manufacturers, integrators, and EMC test labs supporting DoD programs.

The FCC has adopted FCC 26-28, a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking restricting recognition of foreign test labs in countries without a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the United States. The new rules introduce a fast-track priority review for devices tested in Trusted Test Labs, strengthen post-market surveillance, and require disclosure of foreign staff. Manufacturers have a two-year phase-out to transition certification activities. (488 characters)

Belize has proposed the Belize National Spectrum Allocation Plan 2026, introducing updated frequency allocations aligned with ITU Radio Regulations and WRC-23 outcomes. The reform modernizes spectrum management, supports emerging technologies, and may impact certification requirements for telecom and wireless equipment manufacturers.

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on April 30, 2026 (WC Docket No. 26-82) that would block entities on the FCC Covered List from receiving automatic Section 214 blanket authority to provide domestic interstate telecommunications services. The proposal targets foreign adversary-linked carriers and could also restrict interconnection with Covered List entities, marking a major shift in U.S. telecom national security oversi

The Canada RSS-Gen update introduces key changes to radio equipment certification, including updated RF testing, labeling requirements, and streamlined documentation. Issued by ISED, this update impacts manufacturers seeking market access in Canada and requires proactive compliance planning to avoid delays.

The FCC C-V2X 5.9 GHz transition introduces major changes to U.S. spectrum policy by reallocating the 5.9 GHz band and replacing DSRC with C-V2X technology. This update impacts automotive, telecom, and wireless industries, requiring manufacturers to adapt to new certification requirements and spectrum usage rules.

Canada has updated its toxic substances regulation under CEPA, strengthening restrictions on hazardous chemicals such as PFAS and flame retardants. The new measures impact manufacturing, importation, and product compliance, requiring companies to reassess materials, ensure supply chain transparency, and align with stricter environmental standards.

The latest FCC 6 GHz router frequency restrictions introduce stricter rules for Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 devices, including mandatory AFC systems, indoor/outdoor limitations, and enhanced firmware controls. These changes significantly impact certification, product design, and time-to-market for manufacturers entering the U.S. market.

The latest ISED RSS update Canada introduces important changes to radio certification requirements, including updates to RSS-Gen, RSS-247, and RF exposure standards. These revisions align with global regulations, impacting testing, labeling, and compliance processes for wireless devices. Manufacturers must adapt quickly to maintain market access in Canada.