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Kazakhstan is experiencing a surge in complaints regarding the registration and subsequent blocking of mobile phones imported from abroad, particularly from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. This issue is causing significant distress among both consumers and sellers, who are struggling to use devices they have legally purchased.

Difficulties in Phone Registration

Sellers report that the system is increasingly rejecting IMEI codes during the registration process. This problem is not limited to newly purchased devices but also affects phones that have been in use for several years, some as old as four to five years.

"Neither our clients nor we ourselves can use the devices we paid for. Although the verification is formally free, the process is complicated. Because of this, people are forced to pay others 30,000-50,000 tenge to get registered. Now, even smartphones purchased before the law was passed have stopped working," shared seller Anel Ergazina.

New Regulations and Their Consequences

According to entrepreneurs, after the introduction of new regulations, the system requires verification when a second SIM card is inserted. Without this, the device is flagged as 'grey' and will be blocked after one month. Buyers facing this issue are unsure where to turn for assistance.

Company Response

The company responsible for phone registration in Kazakhstan is 'ATS Mediafon KZ' LLC. However, entrepreneurs claim that the website for registration applications is not functioning correctly. A representative from the company disputes this claim.

"Blocking will not occur based on the country of origin of the phone. We have sufficient documents confirming the legal import of the device. If phones are imported and processed in accordance with the requirements, they will pass verification without any issues. Those imported without customs registration and necessary payments will not be registered. Registration is free for individuals, while entrepreneurs pay 4,325 tenge per device," stated Madi Sherim, Commercial Director of the LLC.

The company has stated its readiness to engage in dialogue with entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, sellers are demanding that the state take over the registration process.