Satellite Phone → China

Strictly prohibited without MIIT license

Details

China prohibits civilian satellite phone use without a license from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). All satellite communications are controlled by the state. Iridium, Thuraya, and Inmarsat devices will be confiscated at customs. Penalties include detention and fines. Enforcement in China carries fines from CNY 100,000 to CNY 5,000,000 and imprisonment up to 20 years in aggravated cases under Criminal Law of the PRC Art. 151-155, Art. 347. Leaving China with satellite phone is a separate question — restricted: Satellite phones and personal radio transmitters may face export controls from China for dual-use technology reasons.

Legal reference

PRC Radio Regulations, Telecommunications Regulations

Leaving with this item

Satellite phones and personal radio transmitters may face export controls from China for dual-use technology reasons.

Practical advice

Do not bring any satellite phone to China. Even transit with a satellite phone can trigger confiscation.

Customs authority

General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) · http://www.customs.gov.cn