Elon Musk’s Starlink Never Applied for a South African License Despite BEE Complaints

Despite Elon Musk’s claims that Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws prevented Starlink from operating in South Africa, the company has never actually applied for a license.

According to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), SpaceX, which owns Starlink, has not yet submitted an official application.

This contradicts Musk’s recent remarks that South Africa’s BEE policies are “racist” and blocking his satellite internet service from entering the market.

Starlink Has Not Applied for a License

ICASA Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi confirmed that Starlink has never formally applied for a license, despite Musk’s complaints about the 30% BEE shareholding requirement for telecom operators.

Ramusi explained, “Our licensing process is clear. If a company wants to operate in South Africa, they must meet the local regulations, including the BEE policy.”

Even though Starlink is available in several neighboring African countries, it still needs to follow the proper licensing procedures to enter the South African market.

ICASA Warns Against Illegal Starlink Usage in South Africa

As a result of Starlink’s absence in South Africa, some individuals and companies have started importing Starlink terminals illegally.

ICASA has issued a warning to South Africans about using unlicensed Starlink equipment, as it is not yet legally approved for use in the country.

Starlink Faces Similar Challenges in Lesotho

South Africa isn’t the only African country requiring local shareholding for Starlink’s operations.

In Lesotho, the Section 2 regulatory body has also objected to Starlink’s launch, insisting that at least 30% of its equity must be owned by Basotho citizens before it can operate legally.

In a statement, Lesotho’s regulatory authority emphasized that while expanded internet access is beneficial, foreign companies should include local ownership to ensure economic participation by local citizens.

Is Starlink Avoiding Local Regulations?

While Elon Musk continues to criticize BEE laws as a barrier to investment, Starlink’s failure to even apply for a license raises questions.

Is Starlink truly being blocked by South Africa’s laws, or is it avoiding local ownership requirements that similar companies have complied with?

Let us know your thoughts: Should Starlink be exempt from BEE laws?

{Source The South African}

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