Unlocking the UWB Market

Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology is powering a new generation of devices. From high-precision tracking in industrial environments to secure vehicle access and connected consumer experiences, interest in UWB-enabled products continues to grow. Latin America presents a significant opportunity but entering this market requires navigating a diverse and constantly evolving regulatory landscape. Unlike more harmonized regions, Latin American countries maintain their own regulatory frameworks with notable differences in technical requirements, documentation, testing, and labeling. For manufacturers, this means there is no single strategy that fits the entire region. 

Let's take a high level look at the situation.

A Diverse Landscape: Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and More

The regulatory agency ANATEL has developed detailed UWB regulations. Acts No. 14448 and No. 423 define specific frequency bands (3.1–3.3 GHz and 3.7–10.6 GHz for general use), address vehicular radar applications, and impose temporary restrictions on certain bands to protect existing services.

Key point: In-country testing at an ANATEL-accredited laboratory is mandatory. Foreign test reports are only supplementary. A local representative is also required.

SUBTEL has issued clear regulations (Resolution 1985), classifying UWB devices by usage type (indoor, portable, vehicle-mounted) and defining specific emission limits for each. The rules are clear but strict with explicit prohibitions on UWB use in toys or aircraft.

Positive point: SUBTEL generally accepts FCC or CE test reports which streamlines the process if the documentation is carefully aligned with Chilean requirements. No local representative is required.

The agency ENACOM simplifies the process for many by directly referencing FCC Part 15.519 in its main regulation (Resolution 5186-E/2017) for portable UWB devices. This provides a clear starting point for manufacturers already targeting the U.S. market.

Consideration: The regulatory landscape is evolving quickly and developments should be monitored closely. A local representative is required.

At first glance, Colombia appears straightforward. The CRC accepts FCC compliance for approval and does not require local testing or representation. However, the national spectrum agency (ANE) issues its own resolutions (such as Resolution 105 of 2020) defining specific limits for unwanted emissions, which may differ from international standards.

Mexico and Peru (Ambiguous Regulation)

In key markets like Mexico and Peru, specific UWB regulations are not yet well defined. Regulators (IFT in Mexico and MTC in Peru) often approve devices under general Short-Range Device (SRD) rules or by referencing international standards like the FCC. This ambiguity requires more direct and careful regulatory engagement.

The UWB market in Latin America presents great opportunities, but also demands navigating a fragmented technical and regulatory environment. Each country has distinct requirements regarding testing, labeling, local representation, and applicable standards. Attempting to manage this independently can lead to delays, rejections, or unnecessary costs.

Our LATAM specialists at Eleos Compliance Ecuador branch, work directly with authorities, laboratories, and representatives across the region. We help assess the regulatory viability of your products, validate technical documentation, coordinate local approval processes and anticipate risks before they impact your timeline. If you are developing or launching a UWB product, get in touch. Our team will help you design a clear and effective strategy to ensure compliance in each Latin American country.