WILLEMSTAD – The Regulatory Authority of Curaçao (RAC) has warned that the sale and use of Starlink equipment and services are currently prohibited in Curaçao because the satellite internet provider has not yet been granted a telecommunications concession.
The regulator said it has received indications that Starlink equipment is already being sold and used on the island, despite the company not yet having the required authorization to provide telecommunications services in Curaçao.
According to RAC, neither companies nor individuals are permitted to sell or use Starlink equipment and services until a concession has officially been granted.
The warning comes as Starlink's possible entry into the Curaçao telecommunications market has attracted growing attention. The satellite internet service could provide consumers and businesses with an alternative to existing fixed and mobile internet connections, but regulatory approval remains necessary before the service can legally operate.
RAC stressed that regulation is also necessary to protect Curaçao's radio frequency spectrum.
According to the authority, it is essential that users of the frequency spectrum can operate without harmful interference. Rules governing spectrum use are therefore imposed, including requirements established through telecommunications concessions.
RAC said it will take action against suppliers and resellers offering Starlink equipment while the company remains without a concession.
The regulator did not specify in its announcement what enforcement measures could be taken against companies or individuals already selling or using the equipment.
Starlink has submitted an application for a concession, but a final decision has not yet been announced. RAC said that once there are official developments concerning the final decision on Starlink's application, the competent authorities will communicate them publicly.
Until then, the regulator's position is clear: Starlink equipment and services may not legally be sold or used in Curaçao.