WILLEMSTAD – Starlink could become operational in Curaçao within weeks of receiving its final permit, as the authorization process for the satellite internet provider enters its final stage.
Minister Charles Cooper and his delegation, together with telecommunications regulator RAC, met with Starlink representative Rebecca Hunter, Market Access & Development Director at SpaceX, to discuss completing the permitting process for Curaçao.
Minister Cooper and Rebecca Hunter
According to the government, the process is now in its final phase. Once the formal procedure has been completed and the final decision signed, RAC will be able to proceed with implementation.
Starlink indicated that after receiving its definitive authorization, the company could begin operations in Curaçao within several weeks and is expected to be operational within a maximum of 30 days.
Cooper: Starlink Must Comply With Curaçao Laws
During the meeting, Cooper emphasized that Starlink, like every company operating in Curaçao, will be required to comply with local laws and obligations.
These requirements include the payment of taxes, import duties and regulatory fees, as well as compliance with legal requirements related to lawful interception.
The minister's position comes as Curaçao works to expand and modernize its telecommunications infrastructure while ensuring that international technology companies operate within the country's regulatory framework.
Potential Benefits for Curaçao
The meeting also addressed potential benefits Starlink's satellite internet network could provide to Curaçao.
Among the possibilities discussed were improved connectivity and digital infrastructure, greater communications resilience during disasters and emergencies, and additional connectivity options for education and healthcare.
Public Wi-Fi in downtown Willemstad was also discussed as a potential application.
Starlink reportedly views Curaçao as a strategically important location because of the island's existing gateway infrastructure and developments surrounding its data center sector.
The possibility of developing additional infrastructure on the island in the future will also be explored.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, provides broadband internet through a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, allowing users to connect through dedicated satellite terminals rather than relying exclusively on conventional terrestrial internet infrastructure.
For Curaçao, the completion of the licensing process would pave the way for Starlink to formally enter the local telecommunications market.
Cooper said his objective is to continue modernizing Curaçao's connectivity while ensuring compliance with local legislation and delivering tangible benefits for the population and economy.