Starlink Gets License to Operate in Sri Lanka, Set to Launch After New Bill Passed

Starlink has secured a license to operate in Sri Lanka, following the passage of a new telecommunications bill, paving the way for SpaceX's satellite internet service to improve connectivity across the country.

Sri Lanka Grants License to Starlink, Paving the Way for Enhanced Nationwide Connectivity and Digital Inclusion

A license was issued to Starlink in Sri Lanka, allowing it to commence operations. The Sri Lankan President's office has reported that the local telecommunications regulator has given SpaceX a license to operate Starlink services in the country.

President Wickremesinghe authorized the inauguration of Starlink in Sri Lanka in June.

“Starlink’s implementation will be transformative for Sri Lankans, especially those struggling to stay connected with reliable, high-speed internet. This advancement will significantly improve connectivity across the country, which is crucial for inclusion in the digital economy and maintaining communication in remote areas and during natural disasters,” commented Sri Lanka’s President.

According to Teslarati, the Sri Lankan parliament passed a new telecommunications bill in July, which enables SpaceX to petition for a license to provide Starlink services and introduces a new license category. As noted by Sri Lanka's Minister of Technology, this was the first time in 28 years that parliament amended the Telecommunications Act.

Starlink achieved a significant milestone earlier this year by surpassing three million customers in 99 countries across the globe. Starlink is facilitating the connection of individuals worldwide in the face of natural disasters and conflicts. Additionally, it is offering free internet access to institutions in rural regions.

Sri Lankan Parliament Passes New Telecom Bill, Paving Way for Starlink’s Entry and Enhanced Internet Access

Last month's report, Starlink is anticipated to be granted access to Sri Lanka following the parliament's passage of a new telecommunications measure. Under the new legislation, Starlink can register for a license and commence operations in Sri Lanka.

As per Kanaka Herath, the State Minister of Technology of Sri Lanka, the new telecommunications bill will introduce a new license category. Starlink may apply to become a licensed service provider in Sri Lanka under this category.

The Sri Lankan parliament will vote on the new telecommunications law on July 9. Minister Herath observed that this will be the first time in 28 years that the parliament is amending its Telecommunication Act.

“The change will enable issuing of three new types of licenses, one of which will allow Starlink to provide internet connectivity,” the Minister of Technology told Economic Times.

After consulting with the public, Sri Lanka granted preliminary sanction to Elon Musk's Starlink internet service in June. Following Musk's meeting with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Indonesia during the 10th World Water Forum, the government expedited the approval of Starlink.

Starlink's new category license in Sri Lanka requires SpaceX to pay a tariff., the precise sum of which the Minister did not specify

“There are many challenges to constructing telecom towers, but Starlink can increase internet access faster, particularly in rural areas, and support economic growth,” said Minister Herath.