Wednesday 29th April, 2026
The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) has officially granted an operator licence to Starlink to provide services in Papua New Guinea.
NICTA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lume Polume, described the move as “a deliberate and targeted regulatory intervention to address key national challenges relating to connectivity, affordability, and access to reliable ICT services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.”
He explained that the licensing process was carried out under the National Information and Communications Technology Act 2009, involving “rigorous evaluation of Starlink’s technical capability, financial capacity, consumer protection commitments, and alignment with national policy objectives.”
According to Mr. Polume, the introduction of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite services “is expected to significantly enhance broadband availability across Papua New Guinea by complementing existing mobile, fixed, and satellite networks.” He added that this will provide consumers and businesses with “greater choice, improved service quality, and more competitive pricing outcomes.”
The licence comes with strict conditions covering consumer protection, lawful use of ICT services, compliance with national security requirements, and ongoing monitoring and enforcement.
“Access to Starlink services must be used responsibly and strictly for lawful purposes, in accordance with the applicable laws of Papua New Guinea,” Mr. Polume stressed.
He further noted that all Starlink user terminal models approved under NICTA’s Online Type Approval framework are authorised for use in the country. However, commercial access will depend on Starlink’s formal service activation and rollout in line with licensing conditions and operational readiness.
Mr. Polume concluded that the licensing marks “an important milestone for ICT in PNG, bridging the digital divide, improving service affordability, and enabling broader participation in the digital economy.”