Namibia has introduced new import regulations requiring all mobile phones entering the country to obtain a Type Approval Certificate from the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) before clearance by the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA). The move comes shortly after the government imposed stricter measures on the importation of second-hand vehicles, signaling a broader effort to strengthen import control and consumer protection.
According to a public notice issued this week, NamPost advised that the new rule applies to all persons who import, sell, or connect telecommunications equipment to a communication network within Namibia. The regulation ensures that imported devices meet national technical and safety standards and do not compromise public health or communication systems.
Under the new policy, importers including businesses and individuals must obtain a CRAN Type Approval Certificate before the goods can be cleared by customs. The approval process involves submitting relevant documentation to CRAN to verify that the device complies with the country’s technical requirements. Once approved, NamRA will release the goods for entry into the country after duties and applicable taxes are paid.
CRAN has indicated that the approval process generally takes around 40 working days, though efforts are being made to process applications faster depending on the number of submissions. The certificate remains valid for three years and must be renewed before expiration.
NamPost’s statement further cautioned that uncertified mobile phones will not be released by NamRA. Importers are required to declare all imported goods within seven days of arrival and pay customs duties and VAT calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the shipment.
The new regulations also affect consumers who purchase cellphones online through platforms such as AliExpress and Amazon. Devices bought from overseas suppliers without CRAN certification will not be released to the buyer. Temporary imports and certain exempted devices such as laptops, tablets without SIM slots, and smartwatches are not subject to the requirement.
The CRAN Type Approval requirement follows recent restrictions on second-hand vehicle imports into Namibia, which limited the age of used cars entering the country and banned vehicles from being driven on their own wheels through the borders. The stricter car import policy was implemented to improve road safety, curb the import of unroadworthy vehicles, and align Namibia’s trade regulations with international standards.
Both measures reflect the government’s ongoing effort to regulate the quality of imported products, protect consumers, and reduce illegal imports. Authorities say the new cellphone certification process will help prevent counterfeit or substandard devices from entering the market and ensure that all communication equipment functions safely within Namibia’s telecommunications networks.
Importers are encouraged to apply for CRAN certification in advance to avoid delays at customs. The regulatory body has emphasized that compliance will not only enhance consumer safety but also promote fair competition in the local telecommunications market.
