Bhutan — BICMA Type Approval & Certification

DataX International has been evaluating the approval needs of radio products in Bhutan, with support from Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) Department under the Regulatory and Inspection Authority in Motithang, Bhutan. These rules are supervised by BICMA (Bhutan InfoMedia and Communication Authority), an autonomous government institution, established under the Information, Communication and Media Act of Bhutan 2018. Leave everything to our experts, with an expertise in the current regulatory environment, and we will guide you through each step ensuring there are no hiccups for your smooth market entry into Bhutan.

Leveraging decades of experience in global market access and product homologation, the team can share insights on local standards and compliance needs. Leverage our proven experience to confidently power through the regulatory pathway.

What is BICMA Type Approval in Bhutan, and Why Does Your Product Need It?

The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) is the regulating authority to ensure safety with ICT equipment used in Bhutan along with providing quality assurance. To ensure interoperability and safety, they have issued detailed Type Approval rules for radio and telecommunications equipment.

These regulations primarily aim at making ICT devices capable of interworking and interconnected with any communications networks, as well as preventing damage to public telecommunications network or public health. They also intend to pre-register ICT equipment and ensure quality assurance while identifying relevant technical standards.

Items exempted from BICMA Type Approval

Any ICT equipment to be used in Bhutan must either get Type Approval from BICMA or meet exceptions mentions in their regulations. Exempt equipment consists of:

• Mobile phones
• Telephone handsets
• Wireless data modems
• Wireless equipment with an output power less than 100mW -Wireless equipment within personal computers
• CCTV systems
• Cordless audio devices
• Amateur radio equipment
• GPS devices
• Satellite dishes
• Remote car keys
• Vehicle tracking systems
• Security devices
• Remote controls
• Access control systems
• Alarms and motion detectors

Simplifying the BICMA Type Approval Process

An applicant shall submit a complete application package for BICMA Type Approval Certificate which is inclusive of: Valid Business License, Manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity, Test reports from internationally accredited laboratories recognized by BICMA, and Interconnection with National Telecommunications Network Certificate, but, for international applicants it must also be accompanied a proof of payment. Interestingly enough, BICMA does not even ask for product samples together with the Type Approval application.

Validity for BICMA Type Approval: Key Conditions to Know

In Bhutan, Type Approval for RTTE is issued with unlimited validity, provided that no changes have been made to the type-approved equipment. But any change in the name of the manufacturing brand, product, model number and functions or details provided to the Authority an approval must be sought.

On receipt of strong evidence that RTTE is liable to cause interference with any licensed communication network or it is a public hazard; BICMA may nullify Type Approval.

How DataX International Simplifies the BICMA Approval Process

Our end-to-end Type Approval solution for Bhutan against BICMA regulation includes:

1. Advice and consult, for approval scope along with testing standards applicable in Bhutan.
2. Handling of all applicable local customs duties, taxes and other governmental charges that relate to an import pertaining to Type Approval applications.
3. Full control and Management of Bhutan Type Approval
4. Continued support for BICMA re-approvals in the event of changes to previously approved equipment.