Menu

Search

  |   Governance

Menu

  |   Governance

Search

Vietnam Approves SpaceX Starlink Satellite Internet Service Amid U.S. Trade Talks

Vietnam Approves SpaceX Starlink Satellite Internet Service Amid U.S. Trade Talks. Source: SpaceX, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vietnam has officially granted SpaceX permission to deploy its Starlink satellite internet service in the country, marking a significant step in expanding high-speed connectivity across Southeast Asia. According to state media reports, Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology has licensed Starlink’s local entity to provide both fixed and mobile satellite internet services. The company has also received authorization to operate radio frequencies and related telecommunications equipment, clearing key regulatory hurdles for its market entry.

The approval builds on last year’s announcement that Vietnam would allow SpaceX to trial its satellite-based broadband services. While the exact launch date for Starlink in Vietnam has not been confirmed, the latest licensing decision signals that a commercial rollout could be approaching. Neither the ministry nor SpaceX immediately responded to requests for additional comment outside regular business hours.

The decision comes ahead of a reported visit by Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam, to the United States. He is expected to attend the inaugural meeting of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace initiative, aimed at addressing global conflicts. Although the trip has not been formally announced, the timing underscores strengthening Vietnam-U.S. relations.

The development also coincides with ongoing trade negotiations between Washington and Hanoi. The United States imposed 20% tariffs on Vietnamese goods in August, prompting both sides to pursue a new trade agreement. Officials recently concluded their sixth round of discussions, though no final deal has been announced.

Starlink’s entry into Vietnam could boost digital infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas where traditional broadband access remains limited. By leveraging low Earth orbit satellites, SpaceX aims to deliver reliable, high-speed internet, supporting Vietnam’s growing digital economy and technological ambitions.

  • Market Data
Close

Welcome to EconoTimes

Sign up for daily updates for the most important
stories unfolding in the global economy.