Cambodia Bans Imports of Used and Counterfeit Phones and Communications Gear

Cambodian authorities have prohibited the import, sale and distribution of second-hand or counterfeit telecommunications equipment, pointing to concerns that such devices could be exploited in online scam operations and pose threats to the environment. The Telecommunications Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) said on September 22 that the restriction covers mobile phones, tablets, computers, walkie-talkies and other communications devices.

In its notice, the TRC cautioned that these products could endanger public safety and health, interfere with essential national services, damage the environment and be misused for online fraud. The regulator said it had spotted such items being offered for sale on websites and social media platforms.

According to the TRC, many of the devices on the market lacked a Qualified Agent (QA) certificate, Type Approval (TA) certification for specific models, or import permits granted by the regulator. It said this placed them in breach of Articles 15 and 16 of the Telecommunications Law and associated regulations.

Risks to National Services and Public Safety

The regulator warned that certain items, especially mobile phones and walkie-talkies, carry a significant risk to critical national services such as public safety, emergency response, national security, aviation, navigation and military radio communications, since they may interfere with the frequencies these services rely on.

Additional dangers cited include faulty batteries and charging systems, electrical safety flaws and severe overheating that could spark fires. Some equipment may also surpass permitted electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure limits, posing potential health risks to users, while failing to comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements.

The TRC also noted that devices intended for other markets may feature altered hardware or software resulting in weak performance, causing consumers to waste money and time on substandard products. Such equipment could likewise be used by criminals in technology-driven online scams and adds to environmental harm as the devices eventually turn into electronic waste.

Compliance and Penalties

The TRC has directed all businesses to stop illegal operations immediately and take measures to meet legal requirements. Companies are given up to 60 days from the date of the notice to apply for a Qualified Agent certificate that would permit them to lawfully import, supply and distribute telecommunications equipment.

Businesses must also guarantee that they only import, supply, distribute, advertise and resell new telecommunications equipment sourced from clear, legitimate and certified suppliers.

The regulator cautioned that firms, wholesalers and retailers that persist with the banned activities will face tough enforcement, including confiscation of illegal equipment, fines, the shutdown of advertising websites and other actions under applicable laws and regulations.