Mbabane – Importers of electronic communications equipment will face a fine of up to E20,000 or a two-year prison sentence if found dealing in non-approved devices, following the introduction of stricter controls by the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) and the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS).
The new measures, which take effect on April 13, make it mandatory for all electronic communications equipment entering the country to have valid Type Approval Certificates. Authorities say failure to comply will result in serious legal consequences.
ESCCOM Chief Executive Mvilawemphl Dlamini issued a warning yesterday, stating that anyone importing, selling or using unapproved equipment will be committing an offence under the law.
The controls are being introduced in partnership with ERS, which will enforce the requirements through its customs system, ASYCUDAWorld, to ensure that only compliant devices are allowed into the country.
Dlamini said the move is backed by the Eswatini Communications Act of 2021, which requires the Commission to protect consumers and ensure that all communications equipment meets national safety and technical standards.
“All equipment entering the country must meet strict requirements for safety, electromagnetic compatibility and radio frequency use. Type Approval is the process that ensures this compliance,” he said.
The stricter enforcement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between ESCCOM and ERS to strengthen monitoring at border posts and reduce the entry of counterfeit or substandard devices.
The regulations apply to all importers, including manufacturers, vendors, individuals, organisations and licensed network operators. All are required to ensure that equipment is approved before it is brought into the country.
Authorities say the crackdown is aimed at stopping the growing circulation of unsafe and counterfeit devices, which could disrupt communication networks and pose risks to users.
Dlamini urged stakeholders to comply with the regulations to avoid penalties and possible disruptions to their operations.
He said the new controls are part of broader efforts to maintain a safe and reliable communications environment while protecting consumers from harmful devices.
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