Justice Ministry announces new data protection law

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan said the Justice Ministry is drafting new personal data protection legislation to address concerns surrounding the registration of mobile phone IMEI codes.

Speaking to reporters outside the Constitutional Court, Galyan said the new law would establish stronger safeguards for personal data.

"A high standard of personal data protection must be ensured in such cases. That is why we are now working on new legislation on personal data protection. It will dispel all existing concerns," the minister said.

She urged the public to focus on the main objective of the government's initiative, stressing that it is not intended to place anyone under surveillance but rather to prevent the illegal or smuggled import of mobile phones into Armenia.

Under a government decision, Armenia will introduce a unified system for registering International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) codes. Beginning January 1, 2027, individuals importing mobile phones will be required to register the devices' IMEI codes online and pay a state fee. If an IMEI code is not registered, mobile network operators will suspend or terminate service for the device.