L’Agence de Régulation et de Contrôle des Telecommunications (ARCT) of Burundi published Ministerial Order No. 580/01 on April 17, 2025, regarding the management of radio equipment and terminals connected to public networks. This Order strengthens ARCT’s role in monitoring the manufacturing, sale, importation, and distribution of telecommunications and ICT equipment, requiring all equipment to carry ARCT and customs service labels. The labeling requirement is now in effect, enforced locally by ARCT, Office Burundais des Recettes (OBR), and Bureau Burundais de Normalisation (BBN).
On June 26, 2025, ARCT issued a communication to Sellers, Importers, and Users of radio and terminal equipment outlining the following requirements:
- ARCT approval of equipment prior to import, sale, or distribution.
- ARCT authorization for import shipments.
- ARCT-issued sales certificates for vendors.
- ARCT authorization for entities applying for equipment approval on behalf of manufacturers or end users.
Failure to comply with these rules will result in sanctions.