Analysis: Starlink still no closer to SA market access, despite proposed new telecom law
There are two vital updates happening in South Africa’s electronic communications laws and regulations, and neither of them makes it easier for SpaceX to bring Starlink into the country.
South Africa's electronic communications laws and regulations remain unchanged, despite proposed updates, which do not facilitate SpaceX's Starlink service entry. The existing Electronic Communications Act (ECA) and Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) regulations mandate a minimum 30% Historically Disadvantaged Group equity ownership and BBBEE contributor status for any entity providing network services or using spectrum.
The Electronic Communications Amendment Bill further does not alleviate or bypass these equity ownership laws nor Icasa's foreign space segment registration regime.
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