Complying with ARCEP Regulations: ICT and Telecom Certification in Niger - A Complete Overview

The Autorité de Régulation des Communications Électroniques et de la Poste (ARCEP) of Niger plays a central role in safeguarding the country’s telecommunications and ICT landscape. By enforcing strict regulatory requirements, ARCEP ensures that all devices entering the Nigerien market meet international safety, quality, and performance benchmarks.

For businesses seeking market access, compliance with these regulations is mandatory. Recent updates, published on 18 February 2025, introduced significant changes most notably the reduction of approval validity from 10 years to 3 years. This shift aligns Niger with global best practices, increases oversight, and ensures that only safe, reliable, and up-to-date equipment remains in circulation.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of ARCEP’s Type Approval system. It covers the key compliance obligations, validity rules, documentation requirements, and the importance of local representation. It also outlines how expert guidance can streamline the process and help businesses achieve timely market entry.

ARCEP Oversight and Compliance Structure

In Niger, all radio, telecommunications, and ICT devices are subject to mandatory Type Approval before being imported, distributed, or operated. The framework is built to ensure that every device adheres to international standards while addressing national priorities such as spectrum management, public safety, and consumer protection.

Key aspects of the framework include:

• Enforcement of European ETSI standards for RF, EMC, and user safety testing.

• Requirement for local representation to manage regulatory responsibilities within Niger.

• No product sample submission or device labelling obligations, simplifying the approval process.

Submission Requirements for Device Certification:

To secure Type Approval in Niger, applicants must prepare a well-organized dossier. Missing or incomplete documents are one of the most common causes of delays, so careful preparation is critical, our team works closely with you to ensure every requirement is addressed and no critical element is overlooked, giving your application the highest chance of smooth approval. Required documents include:

Technical Literature of the Device: User manuals and product specifications/datasheets that detail functionality and features.

Declaration of Conformity (DoC): A signed statement from the manufacturer confirming compliance with relevant standards.

RF, EMC, Health and Safety Test Reports Laboratory reports demonstrating compliance with ETSI and other applicable technical standards.

GSMA TAC Letter: Required for cellular devices, this confirms the allocated Type Allocation Code (TAC) for the product.

Organizing and submitting these documents correctly ensures a smoother review process with ARCEP and minimizes the risk of rejections or prolonged queries.

Certificate Validity and Lead Time

Under the revised regulation of February 2025, ARCEP has shortened the approval validity period:

·       Validity: 3 years (previously 10 years)

·       Processing Time: Approximately 5–8 weeks from submission

·       Renewals: Required upon expiry to maintain continued compliance

This change aligns Niger with international best practices, ensuring periodic reassessment of approved equipment.

How We Support You Success in The Niger’s Regulatory Landscape

Securing ARCEP Type Approval can be complex, but with the right guidance the process becomes seamless. Our support includes:

1. Tailored Consultation: Guidance on compliance criteria, document preparation, and applicable standards.

2. End-to-End Process Management: Oversight of every approval stage, from submission to certification.

3. Local Team Support: Our local team ensures smooth coordination with ARCEP and efficient handling of all requirements.

4. Ongoing Support: Assistance with renewals, product modifications, and regulatory updates.

Your Path to Market Access in Niger

For manufacturers and importers, compliance with ARCEP’s requirements is not optional it is the foundation for lawful and successful market entry. By partnering with Nano Technology Solutions, you ensure that your equipment meets every regulatory checkpoint, avoids delays, and enters the Nigerien market without obstacles.

Contact us today at info@nanotechsol.com to begin your Type Approval process in Niger and ensure smooth, compliant access to this growing market.