Vietnam has granted Starlink Services Vietnam company telecommunications licenses for fixed and mobile satellite networks.
The initial deployment includes four gateway stations and up to 600,000 user terminals.
Starlink is authorized to build infrastructure without interfering with existing wireless communication systems.
Satellite internet is intended to serve areas where traditional telecom infrastructure is unreliable or unavailable.
Why this matters: This approval addresses the digital divide in Vietnam, particularly in mountainous and island regions, ensuring access to crucial communication during natural disasters. It also aligns with Vietnam's broader goals of increasing internet penetration and resilience.
Vietnam's decision to license Starlink follows a pilot program initiated in April 2025, making Starlink the first foreign company approved to test satellite internet services in the country. The Ministry of Science and Technology has granted the necessary licenses, allowing Starlink to legally establish transmission and reception infrastructure.
Satellite internet offers a solution for areas lacking traditional fiber-optic cables and telecom infrastructure. Vietnamese officials emphasize its importance as a backup channel during storms and floods, as it does not rely on terrestrial transmission lines.
According to Doan Quang Hoan, satellite internet could quickly eliminate coverage gaps in Vietnam. However, its overall impact on the domestic telecom market might be limited due to the relatively small size of these coverage gaps, mainly in areas without access to the national power grid.
Vietnam and the US are also engaged in trade negotiations, seeking to resolve tariff issues that could further boost economic cooperation.
Q: When will Starlink services officially roll out in Vietnam?
Starlink has not yet announced an official rollout date.
Q: How many users will Starlink support in its initial phase?
The initial deployment will support up to 600,000 user terminals.
Q: Why is satellite internet important for Vietnam?
It provides a crucial backup channel during natural disasters and expands internet access to remote areas.
Starlink's approval in Vietnam signifies a commitment to bridging the digital divide and improving communication infrastructure.
Satellite internet offers a resilient solution for areas prone to natural disasters.
The move aligns with Vietnam's efforts to enhance its telecommunications capabilities and foster economic growth through technological advancements.
What implications do you foresee for Starlink's entry into Vietnam's telecommunications market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer