May 14, 2026
PHNOM PENH – The Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) has instructed all importers and retailers of unlicensed mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches to cease their business activities and apply for Qualified Agent (QA) certificates within 30 days.
In a May 12 notice, the TRC announced that it has become aware that several well-known brands are being imported by unlicensed dealers, then advertising them online via websites and social media.
The brands of phone, tablet and smart watch identified in the notice were Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO, Tecno, Infinix, itel, Nubia, RedMagic, Asus, Nothing, OnePlus, Google Pixel, Blackview, Black Shark and KOSPET.
The regulator noted that besides lacking QA certificates, many of the dealers failed to register individual models for Type Approval (TA) certification and did not request import permits for telecommunications equipment from the TRC.
Such actions violate Articles 15 and 16 of the Law on Telecommunications.
“The TRC urges all wholesale and/or retail companies, enterprises and shops that have been importing, supplying and distributing telecommunications equipment, including mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches bearing the trademarks mentioned above must immediately cease all illegal importation, supply and distribution activities and take immediate action to ensure compliance with the Laws and Regulations of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” said the notice.
“All wholesale and/or retail companies, enterprises and shops are required to apply for a QA Certificate from TRC within 30 (thirty) days from the date of this notification and must fulfil the obligation to obtain a TA Certificate for each model of telecommunications equipment that has been and/or will be circulating in the market of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” it added.
The notice warned that failure to comply will result in legal measures, including but not limited to the confiscation of goods, fines and the shutting down of websites.
It urges all retailers to immediately halt the sale of unlicensed devices.