Algeria: Entry into force with grace period of Law No. 20-04 relating to radiocommunications including authorisation requirements

On 8 April 2020, Law No. 20-04 relating to radiocommunications entered into force with a grace period. The law includes transitional provisions, granting existing operators of electronic communications and installers a six-month period to regularise their status and obtain necessary authorisations. It requires prior authorisation from the National Frequency Agency, in coordination with the Ministries of National Defence, Interior, and Telecommunications, for the establishment, operation, and acquisition of radiocommunication stations and equipment. Operators of electronic communications must comply with conditions set in their authorisations, with administrative sanctions, including suspension or reduction of authorisation, applicable for non-compliance. The law also specifies penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for unauthorised operations, sales, or installations of radiocommunication equipment.