IDA simplifies telecommunication dealer licensing and equipment registration framework

Enhanced framework offers telecom licensees convenience as well as time and cost savings.

The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) on Wednesday announced a package of enhancements to its telecommunication dealer licensing and equipment registration framework which will significantly simplify licensing and equipment registration processes and offer telecom licensees more convenience and time and cost savings.

Effective 15 April 2010, IDA will lift the import control of all telecommunication equipment except prohibited telecommunication equipment or other equipment as determined by IDA. In addition, IDA’s Dealer’s Individual (DI) Licence will have its licence period extended from one year to five years and its Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER) scheme, which enables free-of-charge and quicker turnaround time for equipment registration, will cover more categories of telecommunication equipment such as cordless phones.

The new regulations recognise that with the maturing of technologies and greater harmonisation of standards for telecom equipment, IDA can take a lighter touch approach to equipment registration. IDA believes this would allow for a more efficient way to ensure equipment compliance, while making it easier for telecom licensees here to thrive and contribute to the continued growth of the sector.