Vietnam Approves Starlink Internet Service for Five-Year Trial
Vietnam has approved a trial period for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, allowing the company to operate in the country until the end of 2030. The trial will be limited to 600,000 subscribers, with no restrictions on foreign ownership of the service. The move follows recent regulatory changes and is seen as part of Vietnam’s strategy to strengthen economic ties with the U.S. while avoiding potential tariffs.
Starlink will be permitted to provide both fixed and mobile internet services, including inflight WiFi and maritime connectivity. If granted a business license, the company can operate like other telecom providers, either offering services directly or partnering with local businesses. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh had pushed for the approval earlier this month during discussions with U.S. business leaders.
The pilot program also includes cooperation with Vietnamese companies for hardware distribution and service delivery. The country’s National Assembly approved the necessary regulatory changes in February, paving the way for foreign-owned satellite telecom businesses to operate in Vietnam.
