The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MoCIT) has announced that companies importing mobile phones must now obtain licenses from the Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA).
Enayatullah Alokozai, MoCIT’s spokesman, shared the update on his X account, stating that mobile phone importers must secure these licenses in accordance with the ministry’s decision to continue their operations legally. Alokozai clarified that, in addition to regulating telecommunication services, the ministry is responsible for fostering technology growth and development in the country.
The ministry has also implemented important systems to meet growing demands and streamline procedures. One significant measure is the establishment of a system for registering the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of all mobile phones. This system aims to prevent the import of substandard and counterfeit devices while reducing the loss of citizens’ handsets.
Alokozai emphasized that mobile phone importers must register the specific IMEI numbers of their devices and obtain an import license from ATRA before bringing phones into the country. He also warned traders against importing phones without the necessary ATRA license, stating that any unlawful activity would lead to legal action against the involved companies.
