Venezuela has authorised Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to provide services throughout the country.
The decision was announced on Friday 9 October. According to Reuters, interim President Delcy Rodríguez authorised the service as part of an agreement with the US company. (reuters.com)
What the approval covers
Venezuela’s telecommunications regulator, Conatel, said its board approved a general operating authorisation and seven concessions in the Ku satellite frequency band for SpaceX VZ, S.C.A., on Thursday 8 October.
In its statement, published through its official Telegram channel, Conatel said the permissions allow Starlink to provide satellite internet nationwide through a formal operation subject to Venezuelan oversight. (t.me)
The approval establishes permission to operate. The announcement does not set out subscription prices, equipment costs, or a timetable for wider commercial availability.
Earlier emergency trials
The decision follows cooperation between Starlink and Venezuelan authorities after earthquakes on 24 June damaged telephone and internet infrastructure in La Guaira.
According to EFE, citing Conatel, temporary permissions allowed the company to test satellite connectivity during the emergency. These included text messaging through satellites involving the country’s three mobile operators.
Starlink subsequently submitted its formal application after meetings with the regulator about Venezuela’s legal requirements. (efe.com)
What it means for users
The authorisation allows another internet provider to enter Venezuela’s regulated telecommunications market. Its practical value for households and businesses will depend on service availability, equipment access, and pricing.
The emergency trials demonstrate an earlier use of the technology. They do not establish that nationwide commercial service is already available to every customer.
