ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan has moved to strengthen the quality, safety and interoperability of telecommunications infrastructure by enforcing the Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations 2024, bringing the country’s regulatory framework closer to internationally recognized technical and safety standards.

The new regulations establish mandatory technical requirements for telecom equipment used across the country’s communications networks, with the objective of ensuring that devices meet internationally accepted standards for electromagnetic compatibility, radio frequency compliance, health and safety, and network interoperability.

The framework applies to telecom operators, equipment manufacturers and importers, requiring telecom devices to undergo standardized conformity assessments before entering the Pakistani market. The measures are designed to prevent the use of substandard or incompatible equipment that could compromise network performance, reliability or user safety.

The regulations will be implemented through the Standards and Conformance Assurance Directorate (SCAD), established by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to develop testing methodologies, verify compliance with technical standards and oversee conformity assessments for telecommunications equipment.

Officials say the framework is expected to improve the resilience and efficiency of Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure, reduce technical faults caused by non-compliant equipment and create a more competitive and secure digital ecosystem. It is also intended to provide greater confidence for consumers and businesses by ensuring that telecom equipment entering the market complies with recognized international benchmarks.