GCF is a partnership between network operators and terminal manufacturers that provides an independent program to ensure global interoperability of 2G and 3G mobile wireless terminals. Participation in the Global Certification Forum is voluntary and open mainly to mobile operators and manufacturers placing their products on the market. GCF evolved partly in response to the relaxation of the previous regulatory type approval regime in April 2000 within the European Community. This followed the implementation of the Radio Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE) Directive and the repeal of the previous Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (TTE) Directive. However, GCF was always planned to apply worldwide and is now a globally recognized scheme that complements existing regional regulatory certification requirements. GCF brings benefits to all sides of the industry by avoiding duplication of testing and thereby reducing time-to-market.