In a routine inspection of shops selling radio and telecommunication equipment the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has issued a total of 48 violation notices for using or selling equipment without valid licenses.
CRA manages Qatar’s radio spectrum, and conducts routine inspections to ensure compliance with the Telecommunications Law. Under the Law, the import and sale of radio and telecommunication equipment requires an authorization from CRA. Approvals are necessary to ensure the equipment meets certain safety and technical standards. Radio and telecommunication equipment includes, but is not limited to, mobile phones, wireless local area networks (WLAN), and short range devices (SRD).
“CRA’s Spectrum Management Department has a dedicated team to conduct regular inspections of businesses involved in telecommunication dealings. We take strong actions against those found selling illegal equipment or selling equipment without a valid license issued by CRA. If you know of a company or individual selling such equipment without a license, please contact us at our hotline 103 and we will conduct an inspection immediately,” said Faisal Al-Shuaibi, CRA’s spokesperson.
CRA’s inspection team visited a total of 135 sites over a five-day period, targeting popular locations for sale of communication equipment including malls, souks, commercial areas, as well as neighborhood grocery stores.
CRA issued 48 notices for a range of violations; the most common being shops selling mobile phones without a valid license. The notice entails the non-compliant shops to regularize their license or to obtain the right license if they do not have one. If the appropriate licenses have not been obtained, CRA is empowered to take legal action against the defaulters.
In addition to routine inspections, citizens can request a CRA inspection if they suspect the unauthorized sale or use of radio and telecommunication equipment at any location in Qatar. To request an inspection, or to apply for an import authorization, type approval and customs clearance certificate, contact CRA by e-mail at spectrumaffairs@cra.gov.qa, or by calling CRA’s hotline number: 103.