The Office of the Regulator is on the verge of launching Starlink services in Samoa, according to the Regulator Lematua Gisa Fuatai-Purcell. 

In response to queries from the Samoa Observer, she provided an update on ongoing negotiations with SpaceX regarding the licensing necessary for Starlink to operate in the country.

"We are almost ready to switch on Starlink services," Lematua noted. 

Lematua indicated that discussions were advancing, and the regulatory office was close to finalising the agreements required to activate Starlink’s high-speed internet services.

In addition, Lematua addressed concerns regarding a temporary cut-off that occurred last month, which impacted users accessing the service illegally. 

She revealed that more than 10 users were affected by this suspension. While she was unable to provide further details, this action highlights the regulator's commitment to ensuring that internet services are utilised legally and responsibly.

Last month’s cut-off aimed to address issues surrounding unauthorised usage, as the regulatory office sought to protect the integrity of the internet service landscape in Samoa. 

The temporary suspension was part of ongoing efforts to regulate access and ensure compliance with legal standards.

Since April, users have paid regulatory fees totalling $1,150 + GST for licensing and $3,000 + GST annually for business spectrum use.

Lematua in an interview with this newspaper last week stated that while Starlink’s regulatory approval process is close to completion, the final approval depends on additional clarifications from SpaceX. 

Starlink units in Samoa are currently operating under a temporary "Mobile-Regional" plan, as SpaceX lacks a commercial license for the country.