The Government of Tonga has announced that it is granting Starlink a full operational license to provide high speed internet services to the country and the company will be allowed to operate normally with direct sales to the public and through authorised resellers.

Published 7 days ago

Official Approval for High Speed Internet

Tonga’s Ministry of Communications has granted official approval for Starlink to deliver high-speed internet across Tonga.

The move is expected to transform connectivity and boost digital inclusion throughout the islands, addressing long-standing challenges in telecommunications infrastructure.

On July 9, 2024, Tonga’s Prime Minister Hon Haʻukavameiliku announced that the government had notified Starlink to cease operations in Tonga due to the lack of an operating license.  Then, on July 19, The Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment and Climate Change (MEIDECC) announced it was granting Starlink a provisional six-month temporary permit to continue operating in the country.  The temporary permit issued to Starlink included several conditions aimed at ensuring compliance with government regulations.

Multiple Communication Challenges

Tonga has faced multiple challenges with its internet connectivity due to a series of natural disasters that had disrupted its undersea cable infrastructure.

In 2022, following a devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami that severely impacted the country’s internet services, Elon Musk extended a helping hand by offering to send Starlink internet terminals.

Starlink is considered a reliable internet service worldwide, especially in areas with limited or unavailable traditional broadband options. Users have reported that it provides decent speeds and stable connections.

Reliable Internet for All

In a media statement, MEIDECC emphasised the significance of the development, describing it as a “pivotal step” in ensuring reliable internet access for all citizens.

“This initiative aligns with Tonga’s broader goals of enhancing its digital economy and bridging the connectivity gap for rural and remote communities,” said the statement.

Recently, both TCC and Digicel launched their own high speed 5G networks.

Starlink services can now be accessed through authorised resellers, including TokoWireless Ltd (Wantok Tonga), Digicel Tonga Limited, and Tonga Communication Corporation (TCC).

With Starlink’s entry, residents and businesses across Tonga anticipate improved internet speeds and greater opportunities for education, commerce, and communication.

For further inquiries or information, please contact:-

Mr. Stan Ahio

• Acting Director and Chief Engineer, Department of Communications,
• Email: sahio@mic.gov.to,
• Telephone – Office: +676 20 131

…………………………………

Related News:

• Tonga Approves Starlink to Provide High Speed Internet Access to the Kingdom (Kaniva Times)
• Tonga Grants Temporary Permit to Starlink (Noonsite July 22, 2024)
• Tonga:  Communication Problems Have Serious Impact on Cruisers (Noonsite – July 15, 2024)

…………………………………

Find out all news, reports, links and comments posted on Noonsite, plus cruising information from around the world, by subscribing to our FREE monthly newsletter. Go to https://www.noonsite.com/newsletter/.