Armenia Approves IMEI Registration System for Mobile Phones
Armenian Government approves bill to combat illegal mobile phone market through IMEI registration
The Armenian government has approved legislative amendments requiring mandatory registration and monitoring of mobile phones through their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, aimed at combating the country's illegal mobile phone market.
The Cabinet approved the draft amendments to the Law on Electronic Communications at Thursday's meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The new system will integrate customs data, mobile operator records, and international databases to ensure only legally imported devices can operate on Armenian networks.
According to the government, the absence of IMEI controls has enabled circulation of counterfeit and altered devices, resulting in tax losses, unfair market competition, and security risks. The legislation will require IMEI registration at importation and restrict code duplication and modification.
Pashinyan stated the mobile phone sector remains one of Armenia's largest shadow markets. "The era of the black market for mobile phones is coming to an end," he said, noting discussions on the initiative had been underway for approximately 18 months.