Thailand is preparing a framework that could allow Starlink and other foreign satellite operators to offer services in the country, but SpaceX will not be permitted to own a Thai satellite telecommunications operation outright. The government says its refusal to accept 100% foreign ownership is based on national security, sovereignty and the need for Thai oversight of critical communications infrastructure, rather than opposition to Starlink itself. Foreign satellite services under Thai oversight The National Space Policy Committee began work on a new space-sector framework at its first meeting on August 17, including draft "landing rights" rules for foreign satellites seeking to provide services in Thailand. The policy would separate three areas of authorisation: landing rights, gateway operations and satellite services. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, or NBTC, has previously proposed replacing a system with an exclusive character with these separate permissions. Officials say this could allow more consumer and business choice in communications services while retaining controls intended to protect users, competition, national security and Thailand's interests. The dispute over SpaceX's ownership structure first became public in November 2025. On November 6 that year, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob met SpaceX executives to discuss possible cooperation, Thailand's space policies and the possible introduction of Starlink services. Chaichanok later said SpaceX wanted to establish its own Thai company without a local partner and retain complete ownership. According to the minister, the company said it would not invest unless it could operate under that structure. Rules on foreign ownership remain firm Thailand rejected that condition, saying a wholly foreign-owned operation connected to satellite telecommunications and digital infrastructure could not be accepted under legal and national-security considerations. The Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) sets conditions for foreign business participation, while industries governed by specific legislation must also comply with those laws. The government is also seeking to prevent nominee arrangements being used to hide foreign control. Since August 1, 2026, the Department of Business Development has stepped up checks on company shareholders and directors after incorporation, targeting structures where Thai nationals may be used as nominees. The concerns are heightened by Starlink's use of low-Earth-orbit, or LEO, satellites. Such systems can cover wide areas without conventional terrestrial networks, making them relevant not only to internet access but also to emergency communications and national infrastructure. Thailand repeated its position during trade talks with the United States. Vice Minister for Commerce Kirida Bhaopichitr said the government did not want a US company to establish a wholly foreign-owned LEO satellite telecommunications business. "Only one business sector is one that we genuinely do not want the United States to enter through full investment: low-Earth-orbit satellite telecommunications services, because this is a sovereignty issue," she said. "Essentially, there is only one US company seeking this, which is SpaceX." Wider plans for Thailand's space economy The committee is also pursuing a broader strategy covering the space economy, security and technology. This includes surveillance systems, space traffic management, Earth-observation satellite research and a feasibility study for a proposed Thailand Spaceport. Satellite data could support agriculture, disaster management and PM2.5 monitoring. The government also plans to revise the draft Space Activities Act and update the National Space Master Plan for 2023-2037. Companies licensed to use Thailand's satellite orbital rights may also be required to provide free capacity for state missions and public services under the State Use and Public Services concept. Join the discussion? 19 August 2026
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