Cambodia Cracks Down on Second-Hand Electronics! Mobile Phones and Tablets Named — What Does the 60-Day Rectification Really Mean?

Cambodia's telecommunications regulator recently issued a notice announcing stricter oversight of second-hand and counterfeit telecom equipment from abroad, covering items such as used mobile phones, tablets, computers, and walkie-talkies. Whether sales take place in physical stores or through websites and social media, relevant merchants should take particular note. Why the sudden tightening of regulations? Officials stated that second-hand electronic devices of unknown origin that have not been certified may have been tampered with illegally. They not only pose quality and safety risks but could also be exploited by criminals for online fraud and other illegal activities. However, not all second-hand mobile phones are used for telecom scams. The notice addresses counterfeit and second-hand telecom equipment from abroad and requires the traders concerned to deal only in brand-new equipment of clear, lawful origin with TRC Type Approval (TA). In addition, the much-discussed "60-day rectification" must be understood correctly. These 60 days are not a grace period allowing merchants to continue selling second-hand equipment. The relevant illegal business activities must be stopped immediately, and the traders concerned must apply to TRC for a Qualified Agent (QA) Certificate within 60 days of the notice and comply with the requirements above. If violations continue, merchants may face seizure of equipment, fines, or even the closure of related advertising websites. Therefore, friends running second-hand electronics businesses in Cambodia should quickly review their supply sources, certifications, and operating qualifications, and avoid crossing the red line due to unfamiliarity with the new regulations!