Frustration is mounting in Papua New Guinea following the government's mid-December order for Starlink to cease operations, leaving businesses, healthcare providers, and communities struggling with disrupted internet access. The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (Nicta) mandated the shutdown, citing Starlink's lack of a license to operate within the country.

Starlink, a satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, provides connectivity to remote areas. Nicta's acting chief executive, Lume Polume, stated, "Starlink is currently not licensed to operate in Papua New Guinea, and until the legal process is completed, services cannot be allowed." The shutdown impacts a potentially significant market for Starlink, given PNG's challenging geography and limited terrestrial internet infrastructure. While specific user numbers for Starlink in PNG were not immediately available, the company's global subscriber base reportedly exceeds 2 million.

The absence of Starlink's services is particularly felt in sectors reliant on consistent internet access. Health providers in remote areas, who depend on the service for telemedicine and data transfer, are facing significant disruptions. Businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that leveraged Starlink for e-commerce and communication, are also reporting negative impacts on their operations. The cost of alternative internet solutions, often significantly higher than Starlink's monthly fees, presents a further challenge.

The situation highlights the complexities of balancing regulatory compliance with the need for improved internet access in developing nations. While Nicta emphasizes the importance of adhering to licensing regulations, critics argue that the shutdown hinders economic development and limits access to essential services. The licensing process, and the timeline for its completion, remains unclear. The government has not yet provided a specific date for when Starlink might be able to resume operations, pending regulatory approval. The financial implications for Starlink, in terms of lost revenue and potential market share, are currently difficult to quantify. However, the situation underscores the importance of securing necessary licenses before commencing operations in new markets.