The Ministry of Communications has set a 30-day deadline for companies to complete activation procedures for a range of devices used for professional and technical purposes. This particularly applies to devices that, due to their technical nature, cannot automatically receive SMS messages.
The ministry explained in a statement that this move aims to streamline the activation process for these devices and prevent any adverse effects on companies utilizing them. The allotted time frame is akin to the duration approved for devices that can receive text messages.
The devices in question include, but are not limited to, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, modems, routers, GPS and tracking devices, as well as other devices designated for similar professional or technical uses.
The ministry emphasized that the 30-day window is exclusively to allow companies to complete the necessary activation transactions. It does not suggest any waiver of fees, documents, or the approved requirements and conditions.
Companies are urged to complete the required procedures within the specified deadline and in accordance with the approved mechanism to avoid any regulatory actions against devices that have not fulfilled activation requirements. They are also encouraged to coordinate with relevant authorities as needed to ensure smooth and prompt processing of their applications.
This clarification comes amid efforts by the Ministry of Communications and relevant authorities to audit devices operating on Lebanese cellular networks. In August, the ministry revealed that the audit showed approximately 215,000 devices have been operating on the networks since January 2019 without having customs duties defined or settled. The telecommunications regulatory authority noted that devices not rectified within the given timeframe may be rendered inoperative on cellular networks.