Type Approval is the regulatory process through which ICT equipment is evaluated and certified by NICTA to ensure it meets Papua New Guinea’s technical, safety, and regulatory standards before being sold, imported, or used in the country.
Type Approval protects consumers from unsafe products, ensures compatibility with PNG’s telecommunications networks, prevent radio frequency interferences, mitigates cybersecurity risks, and aligns with international best practices.
The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) administers the Type Approval process under the National ICT Act 2009.
Yes. All ICT equipment—except for limited exemptions like personal transit items—must be type approved by NICTA prior to sale or use in PNG.
TA Online (ta.nicta.gov.pg) is NICTA’s secure digital platform that streamlines registration, application, certification, and import permit processes for ICT equipment. It also integrates with PNG Customs to facilitate import clearance.
NICTA uses a risk-based classification system:
Devices with no RF emissions, e.g. computer monitors, wired keyboards. Low risk, minimal impact, and e-waste concerns.
Receive-only devices, e.g. FM radios, GPS, DTV boxes. Low risk, no transmissions.
Wired modems, basic home gateways. Connects to networks but has minimal RF and compatibility impact.
Devices with Bluetooth/WiFi and mobile radios, e.g. smartphones, tablets, laptops with WiFi/cellular, smart watches. Moderate risk due to potential spectrum interference and cybersecurity exposure.
Two way Radios, High-power transmitters like cellular base stations, microwave solutions (point-to-point links), satellite uplinks/downlinks terminals. High risk of interference, requires coordination with spectrum management.
