Syria: Bans Imports of 2G and 3G-Only Equipment

Syria bans the import of telecommunications equipment that operates exclusively on 2G and 3G mobile networks, requiring support for 4G/LTE or newer technology.

This follows a circular issued by the Syrian Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (SY-TPRA). The circular prohibits the import of telecommunications equipment that operates on cellular networks, except for equipment that supports 4G/LTE or newer generations (such as 5G).

This import ban will lead to the complete phase-out of 2G and 3G use in Syria, although the process will be implemented gradually, starting with the import ban.

Manufacturers and importers targeting the Syrian market need to understand the scope, implications, and enforcement timeline of this new regulation. Failure to comply may affect market access and product importation into Syria.

Why Are 2G and 3G No Longer Permitted?

It is undeniable that for many years, 2G (GSM) and 3G (UMTS/HSPA) technologies served as the backbone of mobile communications across many countries in the region. However, the surge in data consumption has gradually led to these technologies being phased out.

Over the past decade, newer technologies such as 4G LTE and 5G have become widespread and are replacing older technologies. This has made maintaining legacy networks increasingly inefficient for operators and spectrum managers.

Legacy networks consume valuable radio frequency spectrum. Yet this spectrum could be reallocated to newer technologies to deliver higher speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity. 

It’s not just a matter of spectrum management; 2G and 3G communication protocols also have security vulnerabilities. With the advent of 4G LTE and 5G networks, these issues have been successfully addressed. 

Globally, international telecommunications standards are indeed beginning to phase out these older networks. The import ban regulation issued by SY-TPRA is, in effect, Syria’s effort to align with existing standards.

With this policy, Syria aims to prevent several things:

• Prevent the influx of outdated technology
• Protect consumers from purchasing hardware with a short lifespan
• Strengthen the foundation for future digital economic expansion

Key Points of the SY-TPRA Circular

The regulatory circular issued by SY-TPRA outlines several important points to note. The key provisions include:

• Affected Devices: This circular directly impacts devices that do not support LTE. These devices are no longer eligible for import approval in Syria.
• 4G/LTE Capability Requirement: This circular applies to all telecommunications devices that use cellular networks. Cellular telecommunications devices that can be imported into Syria must support 4G/LTE or the next generation.
• Device Exceptions: Devices supporting 4G/LTE or newer technologies remain eligible for import approval, even if they also include backward compatibility with 2G and 3G networks.
• Strict Deadline for Import Approval: The circular was effective on October 1, 2026. As of this date, SY-TPRA will no longer grant import approvals, type approvals, or entry permits for any cellular devices operating on 2G and/or 3G networks.

Scope of Affected Products

The requirement may affect various categories of products, including:

• Mobile phones
• Cellular communication devices
• Machine-to-machine (M2M) equipment
• Internet of Things (IoT) devices utilizing mobile networks
• Wireless data terminals
• Tracking and monitoring products equipped with cellular connectivity

Phased Shutdown of 2G and 3G Networks 

Syria is taking a two-pronged approach, first halting imports and then deactivating the networks. This is a measure to prevent the market from being continuously flooded with spare parts for older models.

This circular banning imports does not mean that the 2G and 3G networks currently active in Syria will be shut down. It is merely the first step in the government’s effort to implement a complete phase-out.

However, it is undeniable that this will inevitably lead to a broader phase-out in the future. This is unavoidable for the older infrastructure already in operation within the country.

SY-TPRA has not yet officially announced the phases for phasing out 2G and 3G network services during the transition period. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology will announce the official schedule for the complete shutdown of the old network frequencies.

Impact on Type Approval Certification in Syria

With the issuance and enforcement of the circular banning the import of 2G and 3G devices on October 1, 2026, this has a direct impact on type approval applications in Syria. Consequently, devices using older cellular network technologies may face significant challenges in obtaining the approvals.

Manufacturers and importers need to adapt to these updated regulations. This has a direct impact on operational adjustments for businesses involved in international trade and product compliance.

Supply chain audits are necessary, as well as an inventory check of 2G/3G equipment currently in transit or planned for import into Syria. Manufacturers wishing to import their telecommunications devices should prioritize chipsets that support LTE.

For older devices using legacy networks that are already in circulation but require a type approval extension, further coordination with the authorities is necessary. At the time of writing, SY-TPRA has not published additional guidance regarding the treatment of previously approved legacy devices or future renewal-related scenarios.