SIMplifying Exports: TRAI Mulls Green Light for Foreign SIMs in India-Made IoT Devices

In a move that could turbocharge India’s IoT and M2M export ecosystem, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has floated a consultation paper proposing a framework to allow the use of foreign SIMs and eSIMs in devices manufactured in India but meant solely for export. The initiative responds to industry demands for pre-integrating foreign SIMs during manufacturing to enable instant overseas connectivity.

 

Currently, Indian rules restrict foreign SIM usage to international roaming for travelers, with strict activation/deactivation timelines. However, manufacturers argue that IoT and M2M devices—like smart meters, trackers, and industrial sensors—need brief activation windows for testing and demo purposes before export.

 

TRAI is now seeking public input on whether only licensed telecom operators should be allowed to sell such SIMs or if any bonafide Indian entity can apply for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). The deadline for comments is August 1, with counter-comments due by August 18.

 

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Source: LiveMint