Important Advisory: Importation of Mobile Phones into Namibia

Following recent discussions and ongoing issues surrounding mobile phone imports into Namibia, please note the following:

Key Requirement:

All mobile phones and/or telecommunications equipment that transmit and receive or use radio frequencies which connect to any communications network within Namibia require type approval from the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) prior to entry into the country.

Background:

• Namibian nationals living abroad often send mobile phones as gifts to relatives in Namibia.
• Tourists may request mobile phones left in previous countries be shipped to Namibia.
• Phones are frequently purchased through online platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Temu.

Regulatory and Legislative Framework:

According to Namibian law, type approval must be obtained by the Importer of Record (Consignee).
DHL Namibia does not assist with obtaining CRAN certification.
Shipments without valid type approval will not be cleared by NamRA (Namibia Revenue Agency).
CRAN certification may take 5 days to 5 weeks to obtain.
Further details can be found at: https://www.cran.na/

Procedure When CRAN Certification is Declined:

If type approval is denied, the Importer of Record must either:

• Surrender the phone or equipment to the Namibian State Warehouse, or
• Request a return to the country of origin, at the expense of the shipper or consignee.

All required documentation, including a compliant commercial invoice, must be provided at the time of shipping.
Please note: No complimentary return shipping is available.

Important Notice:

Due to frequent delays, frustrations, and additional costs experienced by Importers of Record, DHL Namibia strongly advises against the importation of mobile phones and/or telecommunications equipment into Namibia unless all regulatory requirements are clearly understood and fulfilled.

If shippers still wish to proceed, they must ensure full compliance with the importation laws and regulations of the Republic of Namibia.