Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) has recently released Circular 10/2023/TT-BTTTT, announcing the partial or full suspension of several technical standards (QCVN) as outlined in Circular 04/2023/TT-BTTTT, which pertains to the list of equipment subject to Certification of Conformity (CoC) or Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Key highlights of this circular include:
- Focus on Modern Technologies: The most notable changes pertain to devices employing cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, Bluetooth, WiFi, DECT, among others.
- Temporary Suspension: Technical requirements under extreme and critical conditions have been temporarily suspended, effective from July 15, 2023, until September 5, 2023.
- Compliance Period: Products undergoing Conformity Certification during this suspension period are not required to adhere to the Certification of Conformity process outlined in the circular.
- Affected Technologies: Among the technologies and associated QCVN standards that are suspended are SRD, RFID, Wireless Charger (QCVN 55:2011/BTTTT), Radar (76-77 gHz) (QCVN 124:2021/BTTTT), and EPIRB (QCVN 57:2020/BTTTT).
This suspension remains in effect from the date of signing (September 5th, 2023) until December 31st, 2023.
While this suspension primarily impacts the Conformity Assessment Process and Technical Standards, it also affects products utilizing SRD, RFID, 5G, Bluetooth, WiFi, Radar, and maritime technologies. Although there is no direct impact on spectrum allocations, compliance with standards is vital for market access and regulatory approval.
By temporarily suspending certain technical standards, MIC aims to provide flexibility for manufacturers and streamline compliance processes while ensuring product safety and quality. This regulatory adjustment reflects Vietnam’s commitment to fostering innovation and regulatory efficiency in its telecommunications sector.