The Government of Algeria has published Executive Decree No. 26-97, dated 31 January 2026 and published in Official Gazette No. 13 on 15 February 2026, establishing updated conditions and procedures for the type approval (homologation) of electronic communication equipment.
The decree introduces several important updates aimed at modernising Algeria’s regulatory framework, improving transparency in certification processes, and enhancing administrative efficiency through digitalisation.
These changes affect manufacturers and importers seeking approval for telecommunications and electronic communication equipment entering the Algerian market.
This article outlines the following:
- Extended Validity Period for Type Approval Certificates
- Status of Existing Certificates
- Introduction of an Electronic Application System
- Product Sample Submission Requirements
- Publication of Approved Equipment
- Mandatory Labelling Requirements
- Impact for Manufacturers and Importers (with access to the official notification)
- How C-PRAV Can Support You
Extended Validity Period for Type Approval Certificates
One of the key changes introduced by the new decree is the extension of the validity period for type approval certificates.
Under the updated regulation:
The validity period of type approval certificates is extended from 3 years to 5 years.
This extension reduces the administrative burden on manufacturers and allows approved products to remain authorised on the Algerian market for a longer period before renewal is required.
Status of Existing Certificates
The decree also clarifies the treatment of type approval certificates issued under the previous regulatory framework.
According to the regulation:
Existing certificates remain valid until their original expiration date.
This ensures a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework without disrupting the validity of already approved equipment.
Introduction of an Electronic Application System
To streamline the approval process, the decree introduces a digital application platform for type approval submissions.
The use of an electronic system is intended to:
Simplify administrative procedures
Improve the efficiency of application processing
Facilitate communication between applicants and regulatory authorities
This step reflects Algeria’s broader effort to digitalise regulatory processes within the telecommunications sector.
Product Sample Submission Requirements
The new framework introduces a specific timeline for submitting product samples as part of the type approval process.
Under the updated rules:
Product samples must be received within five (5) working days after submission of the application.
Applications may be rejected if the required samples are not received within this timeframe.
Manufacturers and applicants should therefore ensure that sample logistics are properly coordinated when submitting approval requests.
Publication of Approved Equipment
The decree also increases transparency by introducing a public list of approved equipment.
Once certification is granted:
Approved equipment will be published on the official websites of the relevant Algerian authorities, including the National Frequencies Agency (ANF) or the Regulatory Authority for Post and Electronic Communications (ARPCE).
This measure allows stakeholders and market participants to verify approved devices and regulatory compliance more easily.
Mandatory Labeling Requirements
The new decree also specifies requirements for approval labeling.
Key requirements include:
The type approval label must be affixed directly to the device.
If it is not technically feasible to place the label on the device, the approval marking may instead be included:
in the user manual, or
on the product packaging.
The label format must follow the regulatory specifications defined by the authorities.
Proper labeling is essential to demonstrate that the equipment has obtained regulatory approval for use in Algeria.
Impact for Manufacturers and Importers
The adoption of Executive Decree No. 26-97 represents an important step in modernising Algeria’s telecommunications equipment approval framework.
Manufacturers and suppliers intending to place electronic communication equipment on the Algerian market should review the updated requirements to ensure:
compliance with the revised approval procedures
correct labeling practices
timely submission of product samples
proper use of the new electronic application system
To read the official documentation, access below:
How C-PRAV Can Support You
Navigating evolving regulatory requirements across global markets can be complex.
C-PRAV assists manufacturers with regulatory consulting, type approval coordination, testing support, and certification management to help ensure smooth market access for telecom and electronic products.
For further guidance regarding Algeria type approval requirements, please contact us at gma@c-prav.com.