CRA finds 31 violations while inspecting 60 businesses

A sweep of routine inspections by the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) found a total of 31 violations within shops selling radio and telecommunication equipment.

The violations were issued for using or selling equipment lacking legitimate licenses.

Sixty stores were audited by CRA’s inspection team over a 14-day period. The most commonly visited areas included mall, commercial centers, and neighborhood grocery stores selling communication equipment.

Of the 31 violations documented, the CRA issued the most violations to shops selling mobile phones without the necessary license. The notice mandates the retail shop to get the correct license or to regularize their current license. If the shop owner fails to gain the proper license, the CRA reserves the right to take legal action against the owner.

Qatar’s radio spectrum is governed by the CRA, which ensures all businesses are in compliance with the Telecommunications Law. The CRA must authorize all importation and sale of radio and telecommunication equipment. All equipment must meet certain technical and safety standards. Within the realm of radio and telecommunication equipment falls short range devices (SRD), wireless local area networks (WLAN) and mobile phones.

An earlier series of inspections completed in April led to 48 violations. Business owners have corrected more than half of those violations, but legal action will be taken again those who have not corrected their defilement.

Qatar residents are permitted to request a CRA inspection of any business throughout the country they suspect may be violation ting the Telecommunications Law. Those wishing to make an inspection request or apply for import authorization must complete a customs and clearance certificate and contact CRA via email at spectrumaffairs@cra.gov.qa or through the CRA hotline phone number of 103.