Is Belize Set to See Elon Musk’s Starlink?

Belizeans and companies are divided over the Public Utilities Commission’s (PUC) consideration of an internet license for Elon Musk’s Starlink. While the PUC has released a detailed Public Comment Compilation revealing over ten letters of objection, many individuals and businesses also support the initiative.

Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) is among the key objectors, stating, “The market is already highly competitive with 16 operators who have to share a mere population of 400 thousand.” They also expressed concerns about data safety, noting that “local data could easily be routed and stored outside the country’s boundaries, comprising data sovereignty.” Furthermore, BTL argued that Starlink would likely “require little to no manpower,” which could lead to job losses.

 

Other groups, including the Belize Communications Workers Union and the Belize Business Bureau, have also voiced objections. The CEO of the Social Security Board, which holds shares in BTL, has expressed opposition as well. The Association of Beneficiaries and Retired Public Officers (ABRPO) echoed these concerns, urging the rejection of Starlink’s application.

In an email thread, Minister Michel Chebat stated, “should approval be considered, Starlink’s operations in Belize be facilitated through a local agent, ensuring alignment with local industry dynamics and subject to our national tax regime.” He warned that failing to do so could create an “unfair market advantage” for Starlink over existing providers.

 

Support for Starlink includes testimonials from residents like Daniel Henrich, who wrote, “As a resident of a very rural part of Belize, I would very much appreciate a positive decision on granting Starlink Belize, LLC the license.” Among the other supporters are businesses like KwiqPass and Intertek, which described ongoing struggles to access reliable internet services as business grows. 

The PUC has put together a detailed 200-page document containing all the feedback received and will take this information into account to determine its decision.