Elon Musk's Starlink may face spectrum tax in India, raising service costs
Starlink is likely to be subjected to a spectrum usage charge (SUC) in India, a levy that had been scrapped for terrestrial network providers such as Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea a few years ago, ToI reported citing sources. If imposed, the tax will increase costs for the Elon Musk-led satellite communications company in India.
The potential charge adds to the challenges Starlink is already facing as it negotiates strict compliance mandates related to internet suspension and interception.
Sources told ToI, Starlink, which is set to receive telecom airwaves through administrative allocation under the new telecom law passed in December 2023, may have to pay around 3% SUC on its adjusted gross revenue from the country.
«Since spectrum will be 'administratively assigned' to satellite operators instead of auction, SUC will be applicable, for which final rates are being worked upon,» one of the sources said.
This means satcom players will have to pay SUC in addition to the 8% licence fee already applicable to all telecom companies. «It may even be higher than 3%, though this is still being discussed.»
Live Events
MORE STORIES FOR YOU✕Starlink readies road for India’s strong connectivity
Starlink's satellite broadband poses limited threat to Indian telcos: Report
From foes to friends: How Musk, Trump & Indian telcos aligned on Satcom deals
« Back to recommendation storiesI don't want to see these stories becauseSUBMIT
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is finalising the pricing, tenure, and