FCC to Block Imports of Once-Allowed Risky Gear
Published Date: 7/6/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting July 16, 2026, the FCC is banning the import and sale of certain communications gear that was once allowed but now poses security risks. This affects companies dealing with equipment added to the risky list in 2024 or earlier, stopping them from bringing in or marketing these products. The move helps protect U.S. safety without canceling past approvals, but it means businesses must adjust quickly to avoid losses.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Ban on Importing/Selling Older Covered Gear
Starting July 16, 2026, the FCC bans the importation and marketing of communications equipment that was added to the Covered List in 2024 or earlier and that received FCC equipment authorization before the Commission's 2022 rules. Companies that import or sell those previously authorized devices must stop importing or marketing them as of that date or face enforcement actions.
You Can Keep Using Your Device
If you already legally bought a covered device that had FCC equipment authorization, you may continue to use and operate that device even after July 16, 2026. The FCC's prohibition stops new imports and marketing but does not revoke past authorizations or force existing users to stop using their devices.
Temporary Exception for Certain Surveillance Gear
Equipment added to the Covered List on March 12, 2021 that is covered only when used for physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure is temporarily exempt from the importation and marketing ban for that use. That suspension remains in place until the Commission adopts a definition and guidance for the statutory term "critical infrastructure," at which point the ban will apply for that purpose.
Rule Applies Only to 2024-or-Earlier Listings
The FCC made clear the importation and marketing prohibition applies only to equipment added to the Covered List in 2024 or earlier and does not apply to equipment added to the Covered List after 2024. Firms dealing with equipment added after 2024 are not covered by this specific ban.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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