Global roaming is the one of the key visions of IMT-2000 third-generation systems. With IMT-2000, it is hoped that users will not only be able to roam from country to country and from standard to standard but also from network to network (fixed, 2G/2.5G and 3G mobile, fixed wireless and cordless).

In some areas (particularly where the GSM standard is used), 2G users have the capability to roam internationally,   However, the experience has not been an entirely positive one. Regulators in Europe, for instance, are grappling with roaming charges that are substantially above cost, complex and non-transparent.  These "legacy" issues from 2G systems will have to be addressed before IMT-2000 can become a truly "global" service.  There are also a number of countries where international roaming has never been offered (e.g. Japan).  Measures will be needed to help these countries adapt to the new international environment. In either case, it will be important to carefully consider the lessons learnt from 2G. 

European Commission (DG Competition), Working Document - On the Initial Findings of the Sector Inquiry into Mobile Roaming Charges,  December 2000 

International Telecommunications User Group,  International Roaming - the DG Competiiton Inquiry: An INTUG Position Paper,  INTUG, January 2001

Article from Telecommunications Policy Online, International Roaming Charges: Overcharging and Competition Law, E. Sutherland, March 2001

ITU Workshop on Licensing of 3G Mobile (Geneva, 19-21 September 2001)