On October 31, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a master circular on the import of goods and services titled <a href="https://m.rbi.org.in//Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12561&amp;Mode=0">Regulation of Payment Aggregator – Cross Border</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the circular, the RBI will regulate all Indian entities facilitating online cross-border payments for the import and export of permissible goods and services. Moreover, these entities will be collectively termed Payment Aggregators Cross Border (PA-CB).

The circular comprises guidelines to streamline the existing cross-border payment framework in India. Previously, cross-border transactions were carried out through Online Payment Gateway Service Providers (<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/online-payment-gateway-service-provider-opgsp?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">OPGSPs</a>) as per a circular issued by RBI in 2015.

OPGSPs operate by partnering with an Authorised Dealer (Category I) Bank (AD Bank) and notifying the RBI. According to RBI guidelines, no formal license is needed to function as an OPGSP.

Hence, RBI has issued a circular to establish a concise and clear framework for cross-border payments. RBI will now oversee all cross-border payments in India related to the import and export of goods. The circular applies to PA-CB, PAs, authorised banks and OPGSPs.&nbsp;The PA-CB circular also denotes that there can’t be any new OPGSP.

This blog discusses the key provisions related to the latest RBI circular on the import of goods and services, RBI guidelines for payment gateway, and OPGSP guidelines.

Master Circular on Import of Goods and Services: RBI Bank Guidelines

The following are the key guidelines mentioned in the circular.

The following entities need to adhere to RBI guidelines/instructions provided in the circular.

Here are the key developments included in the new PACB circular.

Categories of Authorisation as per PA-CB Activity&nbsp;

Based on the cross-border payment activity undertaken by the PA-CBs, they can seek authorisation for one of the following three categories.

PA-CB, facilitating cross-border payments for Indian exporters, has to open an Export Collection Account (ECA) with an AD bank.&nbsp;

ECAs can be opened in either Indian currency or foreign currency. In the case of the latter, various ECAs have to be opened for different currencies.

The PA-CBs will credit all export proceeds in the respective ECAs. Additionally, export PA-CBs need to follow the below guidelines:

Similar to export PA-CBs, import PA-CBs have to open an Import Collection Account (ICA) with an AD bank.&nbsp;

They will collect the payment from importers in an escrow account managed by the payment aggregator. It will then be transferred to ICA and will eventually be transferred to the bank account of the foreign merchants.

These entities are allowed to directly onboard foreign merchants, e-commerce marketplaces, or other overseas entities that offer payment aggregation services.&nbsp;

Here are the guidelines Import PA-CBs need to follow.

Those PA-CB who engage in both import and export activities have to comply with the requirements for both Import PA-CB and Export PA-CB.

They also need to ensure that the maximum value per unit of exported or imported goods or services should be ₹25,00,000.

Non-banks who want to provide PA-CB services will have to seek authorisation from RBI. However, before seeking RBI authorisation, it is necessary to register with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND).&nbsp;

However, RBI has issued the following net-worth criteria for non-banks providing PA-CB services.

The accounts of existing non-bank PA-CB who are unable to meet the net worth requirement will be closed by banks by 31 July 2024.

Snapshot Comparison Between OPGSP Circular (2015) and PA-CB Circular (2023)&nbsp;

Here are the key differences between the OPGSP Circular (2015) and the PA-CB Circular (2023)

Here is the process of seeking approval from RBI for existing or new PA-CBs.

Step 1: Draft the application through Form A, which includes the following parts.

Step 3: The RBI will process the application.

(RBI may raise queries related to various aspects such as shareholding, product processes, etc.)&nbsp;

Step 4: In principle approval from RBI.

Step 5: Filing of system Audit Report

(RBI may raise queries related to SAR audit observations)&nbsp;

Step 6: Final authorisation(state additional conditions that must be complied with)&nbsp;

The evolving cross-border payments environment and the emergence of several OPGSPs and other fintech entities encouraged RBI to issue the circular. Its main purpose is to ensure seamless and more transparent cross-border payment transactions.

Even though regulatory authorities are constantly working on making cross-border payment transactions seamless, transparent, secure, and quicker, businesses often face difficulties in receiving timely payments.&nbsp;

Skydo aims to simplify the cross-border payment landscape for businesses by automating various tasks and helping businesses open foreign bank accounts. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">Join Skydo today</a> to streamline your invoicing and financial management activities!

Q1. RBI’s master circular on the import of goods and services and cross-border payments applies to which entities?

Ans. AD banks, PAs, and PA-CBs involved in the online processing/settlement of cross-border payment transactions related to the import and export of goods and services have to comply with the guidelines mentioned in the circular.

Q2. What are various compliances according to RBI payment aggregator guidelines for cross-border payments?

Ans. All PA-CBs have to follow the guidelines provided in the circular dated October 31, 2023. Additionally, they also have to follow the various guidelines for payment aggregators mentioned under a circular issued by RBI on March 17, 2020.&nbsp;The circular includes guidelines related to customer grievance redressal and compliance with Baseline Technology Guidelines to ensure fraud prevention and risk management.

Q3. How can PA-CB seek authorisation for facilitating cross-border payment transactions?

Ans. AD banks do not need to seek authorisation to facilitate cross-border payment transactions. However, a non-bank PA-CB can seek authorisation from RBI by sending the application to the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS), RBI, Central Office (CO), by April 30, 2024. PA-CB entities must fulfil the minimum net worth criteria before applying to RBI.

 Know more about RBI's circular that mandates payment aggregators to seek authorization for facilitating cross-border transactions by April 30, 2024.

BI’s PACB Circular: Key OPGSP Updates of 2024 to Note 

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Earlier, the world operated under the golden rule – quite literally. Gold was the common standard to which all currencies were pegged. However, there has been a shift in the past half of the century.&nbsp;

No single reserve currency exists, and currencies no longer bow to the mighty weight of gold. Instead, each currency moves relative to the others, with a select few, such as the US Dollar (USD), emerging as the undisputed stars of this financial stage.

The Foreign Exchange (Forex) market has become the cornerstone of international commerce, which has evolved dramatically in the past few decades. This blog will be your one-stop guide for understanding forex.

The forex market, also known as the foreign exchange market, is a worldwide arena where currencies are traded. This market functions around the clock, five and a half days a week, and is the largest financial market globally.&nbsp;

Within this marketplace, various participants, including banks, corporations, retail investors, and government entities, buy and sell currencies.

These currencies are traded in pairs and are categorised as–

While understanding the dynamics of major, minor, and exotic currency pairs is fundamental, tech exporters encounter specific challenges with forex.

Challenges Tech Exporters Face with Forex

As tech exporters wrestle with the challenges presented by the forex market, it's crucial to understand the <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/checklist-for-your-accountant-to-get-money-from-us?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">factors influencing foreign exchange</a> rates. These factors play a key role in deciding the profitability and success of their international ventures.

Factors Influencing Foreign Exchange Rate Fluctuations

1. Interest Rates and Central Bank Policies

Interest rates set by a country's central bank affect the return on investment denominated in that currency. Higher interest rates tend to attract foreign capital seeking better returns, driving up demand for the currency and, consequently, its value.&nbsp;

Central bank policies, including quantitative easing and monetary tightening, can also change foreign exchange rates by influencing the money supply.

Economic data, such as strong GDP growth, low inflation, and low unemployment, can boost confidence in a currency, attracting investors and driving up its value.

3. Political Stability and Geopolitical Events&nbsp;

Countries with stable governments and predictable policies are more likely to attract foreign investment, bolstering their currency's value. Geopolitical events, such as elections, trade disputes, or conflicts, can introduce uncertainty and volatility into exchange rates.&nbsp;

4. Market Speculation and Investor Sentiment

Forex markets are influenced by the perceptions and sentiments of traders and investors. Understanding market sentiment and staying informed about related news is crucial for currency traders and investors.

It's essential to understand that these factors are not isolated but deeply interconnected. For instance, central bank policies are influenced by economic indicators and can, in turn, impact investor sentiment.&nbsp;

Understanding how these factors interact is essential for a comprehensive grasp of exchange rate movements. Exchange rate mechanisms encompass the methods and systems employed to determine the value of one currency against another.&nbsp;

These mechanisms are key in the practical functioning of the forex market and are influenced by the very factors we've just explored.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-much-forex-fees-do-you-pay-on-your-international-transactions?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Foreign Exchange rate</a> mechanisms govern how a country's currency is valued over other currencies. These mechanisms are vital in international trade, financial stability, and monetary policy.&nbsp;

There are three primary exchange rate systems: fixed, floating, and pegged, each with advantages and disadvantages.

In a fixed exchange rate system, a country's currency is set at a specific value about a reference currency, usually a stable and widely accepted currency like the US Dollar or the Euro.&nbsp;

The central bank actively intervenes in the foreign exchange market to maintain the currency's value at a fixed rate. This often involves buying or selling its currency to stabilise exchange rates.

In a floating exchange rate system, market forces of supply and demand determine the value of a country's currency. Central banks do not actively intervene to stabilise exchange rates. Currency values fluctuate freely based on economic conditions, interest rates, and other factors.

A country's currency is fixed to a stable foreign currency or a basket of currencies in a pegged exchange rate system. Unlike a fixed system, where central banks actively intervene, pegged currencies are adjusted less frequently and often follow a predetermined rate or a band within which they can fluctuate.

The Role of Central Banks in Exchange Rates

Central banks are responsible for maintaining stability in their country's currency value and ensuring the economy's overall health.&nbsp;

Here's an overview of their role and the interventions they use to influence exchange rates.

Central banks use monetary policy tools, such as interest rates and money supply, to control the value of their currency and influence the demand for their currency. Higher interest rates attract foreign capital seeking better returns, increasing demand for the currency and pushing up its value.

Central banks may directly buy or sell their currency in the market to stabilise or manipulate foreign exchange rates. When a central bank buys its currency, it increases demand, leading to an appreciation of its value.&nbsp;

Central banks maintain foreign exchange reserves, typically in major currencies like the US Dollar, Euro, or Yen. These reserves act as a buffer for central banks to stabilise their currency.&nbsp;

For example, if a country's currency depreciates rapidly, the central bank can sell foreign exchange reserves to buy its currency, thereby reducing depreciation.

Let’s take the case of the<a href="https://www.intereconomics.eu/contents/year/2015/number/2/article/currency-interventions-effective-policy-tool-or-shortsighted-gamble.html#:~:text=The%20Swiss%20National%20Bank's%20January,of%20stagnation%20%C3%A0%20la%20Japan."> Swiss National Bank (SNB) Intervention in 2015.</a>

SNB took outstanding action to influence its currency, the Swiss Franc (CHF). The SNB had maintained a peg of 1.20 CHF to 1 euro (EUR) for several years to prevent the Franc from becoming too strong and hurting Swiss exports. However, maintaining this peg became increasingly costly for the SNB.

Considering the central bank has the power to make such decisions, what does it mean for international commerce?

Exchange rates drives international trade and commerce. Their fluctuations can significantly impact businesses engaged in global markets.&nbsp;

Here's a detailed exploration of how foreign exchange rates influence international commerce.

Engaging in international trade can be lucrative for businesses looking to expand their reach. However, the intricacies of the foreign exchange (Forex) market can introduce volatility and uncertainty.&nbsp;

To navigate Forex effectively and maximise your international trade success, consider the following strategies.

1. Setting Product Prices for Foreign Markets

To succeed in foreign markets, setting competitive and profitable prices for your products is crucial.&nbsp;

Read more on "<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/price-it-right-driving-success-in-your-it-services-company?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Price It Right</a>" for comprehensive insights into pricing strategies.

2. Importance of Hedging Strategies to Manage Currency Risk&nbsp;

Hedging strategies involve using financial instruments or strategies to mitigate the impact of strong currency movements on your business. It's a vital tool for managing currency risk. Various hedging strategies include the following.

The forex market is not just a financial facet; it's the lifeblood of the global economy. Understanding Forex is akin to unlocking the secrets of international commerce, trade dynamics, and economic stability. It's a knowledge base that empowers businesses, investors, and policymakers to make informed decisions that impact nations and economies.

Remember: the world of Forex is not only about numbers and charts. It's about understanding the economic forces that shape our world. It's about recognising central banks' pivotal role, political stability's impact, and market sentiment's influence.&nbsp;

With continued exploration and a commitment to staying informed, you'll be better prepared to seize opportunities and navigate the challenges that the Forex market presents as you run your tech export business.

Ans: The forex market, also known as the foreign exchange market, is the global marketplace for FX trading. It's where FX transactions occur, involving businesses, banks, and investors in foreign exchange transactions.

Ans: An exchange rate represents the price of one currency in terms of another in the international market. It's determined by various factors, including interest rates, economic indicators, and market sentiment, affecting FX in business.

Ans: Forex rates fluctuate due to factors like interest rates, economic indicators, and market sentiment, impacting foreign exchange transactions and FX currency values.

Q4. How do FX rates impact international trade?

Ans: Exchange rates can impact international trade by affecting the pricing and profitability of exports and imports, influencing market expansion decisions, and affecting cash flow in business foreign exchange.

Ans: Predicting exchange rates is challenging due to the complexity of factors involved in determining FX rates, including interest rates and market sentiment in forex trading. While experts use analysis and models to forecast rates, they are subject to change due to unforeseen events.

Ans: You can find current FX rates on financial news websites, currency exchange platforms, or by checking with Skydo portals. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">Skydo</a> also provides real-time exchange rate information on its website.

Ans: Exchange rates can change frequently, often multiple times in a day, in response to market dynamics, economic data releases, and geopolitical events, affecting forex transactions.

Q8. How is the exchange rate determined in India?

Ans: In India, the exchange rate is determined by a combination of market forces, interest rates, and central bank interventions, such as those by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), impacting the value of the Indian Rupee (INR) against foreign currencies, particularly the US Dollar (USD).

Ans: Currency value changes due to various factors like interest rate differentials, economic performance, and market speculation, impacting the supply and demand for a specific currency in FX transactions.

Q10. How rupee value is determined against the dollar?

Ans: The value of the Indian Rupee (INR) against the US Dollar (USD) is determined by market forces, central bank policies, and economic indicators. It can fluctuate based on the relative strength of the Indian economy, interest rates, and other influencing factors in the foreign exchange market.

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“Macha, that’s where the money is!” When business owners like you hear this, you may wonder if you’re doing the right thing, serving only domestic clients. Whether it is looking at the LinkedIn posts of our ex-boss who took a new job role in Singapore or Instagram stories of batchmates who started their careers in Silicon Valley, working with global clients has its allure.

The reason to pursue this can be many: financial reward, exposure to newer learnings, or simply the sheer thrill of venturing into newer markets. Irrespective of your motivation, expanding your service business globally is a huge step.

Many Indian businesses are going global - both small and big. It includes multi-billion dollar corporations like <a href="https://www.infosys.com/">Infosys</a> and <a href="https://www.tcs.com/">TCS</a> to newer SaaS startups like <a href="https://vymo.com/">Vymo</a> (which is serving 65+ global corporations with 3,00,000+ users). Moreover, Indian businesses are adequately equipped to serve a global clientele.&nbsp;

We have a large, English-speaking, young workforce, proficient in IT and relatively cheaper than our Western counterparts. Indian service exports hit <a href="https://theprint.in/economy/indias-service-exports-hit-all-time-high-of-273-6-bn-in-2022-outlook-is-rosy-too/1302305/">$273.6 billion in 2022</a> and are set to cross <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/indias-goods-services-exports-may-cross-usd-750-bn-this-fiscal-piyush-goyal/articleshow/98414673.cms">$750 billion in 2023</a>. Additionally, over 63 million MSMEs in India already contribute to about <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/trade/exports/insights/etrise-top-msmes-21-making-india-competitive-globally-through-exports/articleshow/86253693.cms?from=mdr">40% of India’s overall exports</a>. This means that you have an immense opportunity to grow and serve international clients.&nbsp;

It's a decision that can bring immense opportunities but also some hard challenges. The world is full of stories of businesses that failed to go global. However, there are also stories of businesses that successfully expanded globally and transformed into global giants.

This easy-to-follow, eight-point checklist especially for Indian service export businesses will guide you through your first phase of global expansion and help you overcome challenges related to your global business strategy.&nbsp;

These tips have been curated based on years of experience working with service businesses like yours, helping them expand globally.

1. Understand your service and your target audience for going global

What are the factors leading to your business’s success in the domestic market? You need to identify your service business’s unique attributes and selling points against your competitors.&nbsp;

If you’re a software development company selling imaging software to the healthcare industry, you can tailor your marketing efforts to target potential customers in the global healthcare industry.

Break them down and ask these questions if they must be adapted to the global audience.

Moreover, apart from understanding your market-specific aspects, you also need to analyse that country’s overall economic and political scenario. This can be done by analysing their GDP, inflation rate, political stability, international relations with your country and level of business-friendly environment provided by the country.&nbsp;

These will ensure you balance between short-term and long-term opportunities that a country provides. For example, a country that provides generous incentives to help businesses become technology-ready could be a lucrative opportunity for an IT services company.&nbsp;

2. Position your service business to your target audience

After understanding your buyer persona/target market, the next step is to make changes to your existing perception (if needed).

For example, if your target audience is in the Middle East, you must adjust your marketing messaging and language to appeal to that audience. Exercise cultural sensitivity while highlighting how your solutions can address specific challenges faced by them.

3. Find and establish the first cross-border business connection

You can achieve this step either through a digital route or a physical route. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/checklist-for-cold-outreach?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Cold reachouts through email campaigns</a>, social platforms, or inbound activities like SEO are effective. Similarly, you can:

You can always request common connections to introduce you to their network since <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/business/sales/blog/prospecting/10-sales-prospecting-tips-thatll-help-you-break-through">referrals have a 70% greater chance</a> of getting leads and, eventually, acquiring new clients.

4. Craft a winning pitch for global business expansion

There are four elements to a winning pitch.

Let’s consider you are pitching accounting software to potential ACCAs in the UK. You may highlight how your software solutions can help them comply with UK-specific tax laws or provide examples of how you've successfully helped other UK-based accountants. Proven track records help in converting customers faster.

Additionally, you can provide a limited free trial for the potential customer to understand how the software works and whether it will suit their needs.&nbsp;

You may be ready to expand business, but the maze of <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/mastering-compliance-a-step-by-step-guide-to-data-protection-payments-laws-and-industry-regulations-for-tech-exporters?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">regulations and compliances</a> deters many businessmen from going global. Before engaging in international transactions, it's crucial to understand the rules of cross-border business. This involves understanding:

If you’re working with Singapore-based venture capitalists and consultants, you need enough information about prevailing invoicing guidelines and taxation in Singapore. You may need to hire a local legal or accounting firm to consult and ensure compliance with the laws.

6. Align timelines and set a roadmap for successful&nbsp; project completion

Once you've established a relationship with your client, it's important to align on timelines, milestones, and execution roadmap to ensure that you're meeting their expectations.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/implementing-effective-communication-practices-for-better-productivity?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Effective communication</a> is the key to a <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/7-easy-steps-to-create-a-successful-project-completion-framework?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">successful project completion framework</a>. A wise decision is to dedicate a single point of contact for the client to speak to. Keeping them updated on the project’s progress regularly is crucial, especially if things are not going as per the plan. Do not assume or expect.&nbsp;

They might require more changes than you think. A dedicated project manager shall communicate, manage the project, and ensure that it's delivered on time and within budget.&nbsp;

On your side, they may also be leading the daily scrum call or updating you on project milestones. Map the potential areas of friction and prepare to resolve them. This will help you manage the project effectively and deliver it on time and within budget.&nbsp;

7. Create international marketing strategies for your service business

Expanding a service business globally requires a firm knowledge of international marketing tactics. To access a worldwide audience, utilise diverse platforms like social media, search marketing, and online advertising. Leverage forums, email marketing, and other targeted channels to enhance outreach.&nbsp;

Craft region-specific strategies and tailor marketing to diverse platforms for effective global promotion. Determine the optimal sales model and establish a comprehensive marketing plan with measurable KPIs.&nbsp;

Generate new leads and assess pricing models relative to competitors. Your <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/six-proven-strategies-to-propel-your-it-service-business-growth?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">go-to-market strategy</a> should prioritise flexibility to adapt to uncertainties and evolving trends.

8. Establish an efficient payment system for post-project customer lifecycle management

Your work doesn’t end once the project is completed. It's important to maintain a good relationship with the customer.&nbsp;

Many times a company does well in the core areas of creating a valuable service and identifying the right market to cater to but still finds it difficult to grow rapidly due to a disorganised payment process.&nbsp;

Imagine doing all the hard work of providing value to your client and then finding out that your payment is stuck or you lose out on some profits during payments.&nbsp;

As soon as you start a business in a new geography, you will begin receiving and sending money abroad. This will bring a set of new aspects regarding international payments that you need to start planning for.

This step involves <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/skydo-dashboard-for-all-your-needs?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">raising invoices on time</a>, clearly aligning payment options, and ensuring <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/real-time-tracking-of-international-payments?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">regular payment follow-ups</a>. Feedback calls to identify areas of satisfaction and improvement ensure you get repeat business, referrals, and positive word of mouth.&nbsp;

Additionally, an international business will usually be dealing with <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/benefits-of-multi-currency-accounts?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">multiple currencies</a> - the target market’s currency, the business’s local currency and probably even a third currency (like USD).&nbsp;

Thus it becomes important for the business to have a system in place for currency exchange conversions and fluctuations. Studying the volatility of that country’s currency will help in analysing and planning for that risk better. Choose the right banking partner or <a href="https://www.skydo.com/?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">payment service provider</a> to save on hefty transactions and <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-much-forex-fees-do-you-pay-on-your-international-transactions?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">forex conversion fees.</a>

Expanding your service business globally can be a challenging and rewarding experience. By following this eight-point checklist, you can ensure that you're taking the right steps to succeed in your cross-border business.

Remember, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/ready-set-launch-8-key-elements-for-launching-your-tech-export-business-today?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">expanding your service business globally</a> is a big decision, and it's important to do it right. By following this checklist, you can navigate the challenges and take your business to the next level. So, take the leap and get started on your journey to global success!

The following are the critical components of successful global expansion.

Ans. Global business refers to conducting commercial activities internationally of goods or services across national borders. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including trade, investment, distribution, etc. It has led to increased economic independence among countries and has created both opportunities and challenges for businesses seeking to expand their operation worldwide.

Q2. When looking to expand your business internationally on social media, what should you do first?

Ans. The first step is thorough market research. Understand the cultural nuances, preferences, and trends in your target countries. Tailor your content and advertising strategies to resonate with the local audience to maximise engagement and success.

Ans. Launching a global business is crucial for several reasons. It broadens market opportunities, reduces dependence on a single market, fosters innovation through diverse perspectives, and can lead to cost efficiencies. Additionally, it promotes economic growth, cultural exchange, and international collaboration, contributing to a more interconnected and prosperous world economy.

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In 2010, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recognized the surge in e-commerce transactions and decided to establish a framework. They introduced regulations titled "Processing and Settlement of Export Related Receipts Facilitated by Online Payment Gateways."

In essence, these rules allowed specific banks to collaborate with online payment gateway service providers (OPGSPs) to streamline the export-related earnings.

By 2015, the RBI expanded these regulations to include import-related payments as well. They authorized AD Category-I banks to offer similar facilities for imports through agreements with OPGSPs.

This strategic move extended the RBI’s regulatory scope, simplifying international trade transactions for businesses.

Per the OPGSP guidelines, AD Category-I banks serve as intermediaries between the OPGSPs and the RBI, exercising quasi-regulatory control over the operations. However, despite these efforts, challenges persist, hindering smooth <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/future-of-cross-border-payments-2030-and-beyond?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">cross-border transactions</a>, particularly in emerging business scenarios.

One significant hurdle is the management of risks associated with returns and chargebacks. Many banks remain hesitant to fully embrace the OPGSP framework due to these unresolved challenges.

Consequently, most Indian tech export companies were forced to rely on one of the three options -

The latter seems like an attractive option while also providing additional benefits such as an international presence for the business. 

Currently, the OPGSP facility serves as the primary payment method for more than 300,000 Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSME) exporters throughout India. Despite recent geopolitical tensions in Europe and a global economic recession, India has emerged as a leader in small-value online service exports, aided by the widespread availability of the internet and smartphones even in remote areas.

Introducing OEIF: Potential Reconfiguration

In early 2023, RBI released draft guidelines on the Online Export-Import Facilitators (OEIF), proposing an evolution beyond the OPGSP framework. OEIFs, defined as payment aggregators enabling low-value export and import remittances, might replace the existing system.&nbsp;

While several parts of this draft are quite progressive and well-received by the payments industry, some aspects are not fully clear, and some aspects seem to take a conservative view.&nbsp;

Two major changes that are quite positive and will make OPGSPs more useful to exporters are as follows.

However, the RBI aimed to further simplify the OPGSP guidelines for small digital payments linked to import/export transactions through e-commerce and protect the interests of Indian stakeholders.&nbsp;

Yet, some rules under the Draft Guidelines put more burden on the OEIF entities than the previous OPGSP regime. Such as,&nbsp;

These steps could increase some indirect compliances that apply to PA firms and present practical difficulties for the OEIF entities concerning implementing the guidelines.&nbsp;

At the end of October 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) unveiled the <a href="https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12561&amp;Mode=0">Regulations on Payment Aggregators</a>—Cross-Border, aimed at governing payment aggregators facilitating cross-border transactions for goods and services.&nbsp;

These regulations effectively replace the earlier draft Overseas Electronic Inward Remittance (OEIF) Guidelines.

Under these new rules, Payment Aggregators (PAs) holding in-principle PA approval or those who have submitted PA applications and wish to engage in cross-border payments must secure approval from the RBI within 60 days. For new entrants, prior approval from the RBI is mandatory.

The regulations categorise PAs into three segments:&nbsp;

Each one has specific account maintenance requirements. Additionally, PA-CB entities are now considered designated payment systems under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act (PSSA).

The RBI's recent rule changes, specifically the Regulation on PA-CBs, show that they've listened to feedback from stakeholders. This update resolves difficult requirements and unclear parts in the earlier draft OEIF Circular.&nbsp;

Now, companies involved in import-export deals must get approval from the RBI to act as a PA-CB. This means they have to follow RBI rules, which changes how they do business.

Note: We are still analysing the impact and potential changes due to this circular and we will update this article when the changes materialise

Ans: An OPGSP stands for Online Payment Gateway Service Provider. It is a type of payment aggregator that facilitates online payment transactions for import and export-related payments, regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under specific guidelines.

Ans: In RBI, OPGSP full form is Online Payment Gateway Service Providers, which are payment aggregators that enable the processing and settlement of import and export-related payments, as per the RBI's regulatory framework and guidelines.

Ans: The RBI has set transactional thresholds for OPGSPs, with different limits for import and export transactions. The transaction limits were proposed to be raised from USD 2,000 to USD 3,000 for imports and from USD 10,000 to USD 15,000 for exports under the draft guidelines.

Q4. What are the documents required for opening an account in Online Payment Gateway Service Providers (OPGSP)?

Ans: The specific documents required for opening an account with OPGSPs may vary, but typically, they may include identification and business documents, as well as compliance with RBI's KYC requirements and other regulatory guidelines.

Q5. What type of accounts can be opened by OPGSP?