Starlink suspends new connections in Tajikistan as regulator seeks explanation

Starlink has temporarily suspended the sale and activation of new connections in Tajikistan, citing government regulation and the high cost of ground network infrastructure. The Communications Service under the Government of Tajikistan says it has imposed no restrictions on the company and has requested an explanation. An Asia-Plus reader told the news outlet that Starlink had canceled his order and refunded his payment. The company informed him of the suspension in an email. “Due to government regulation and the high cost of the ground network in Tajikistan that Starlink is required to use, we are unable to connect new customers until further notice. We are canceling your order and issuing a full refund,” the email stated.

Regulator says it imposed no restrictions In response to an inquiry from Asia-Plus, the communications service agency said it had not prohibited or restricted the sale, connection or activation of new Starlink subscriptions in Tajikistan. According to the agency, Starlink did not notify it in advance of its decision to suspend new connections. The regulator has sent the company an official inquiry requesting a detailed explanation of the reasons for the suspension. Dispute over infrastructure costs The Communications Service said Starlink has an active agreement with a local operator for communication channels, with technical and commercial terms agreed upon by all parties in advance. The agency said Starlink’s reference to high ground infrastructure costs required further clarification because the previously agreed rates had not been revised or increased. The regulator also emphasized that the decision to suspend new connections was made by Starlink, not the Tajik side, and that the company would determine when to resume sales and activations. The…