TRAI proposes new framework to allow foreign SIMs in export-bound IoT devices

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended a separate regulatory framework to permit the import and sale of foreign telecom operators’ SIM and eSIM cards in India for use in machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices that are meant for export, seeking to unlock the market potential for Indian exporters and importers operating in the segments.

TRAI has recommended for regulation to occur through a light-touch service authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, terming the new service as “International M2M SIM Service Authorisation”. The SIMs or eSIMs, TRAI added, should remain non-functional within India except for limited testing, ensuring that domestic telecom networks are not accessed.