Released: 2026-07-22
VICTORIA, Seychelles. Seychellois households and businesses now have a new way to get online. Starlink, the satellite internet service that beams high speed connectivity from spacecraft orbiting the Earth, has begun operating in the country.
The service had its soft launch on Tuesday at a press conference at State House, led jointly by Vice-President Sebastien Pillay and the Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority. The briefing set out the rules that will govern Starlink locally, the services it will offer, and how satellite internet fits alongside the providers already serving the islands.
Vice-President Pillay described the arrival of Starlink as an important step in the country’s digital transformation. He said the government wants every Seychellois to have access to reliable, affordable and high quality internet, while keeping the market fair and competitive. Embracing new technology matters for economic growth, better public services and fresh opportunities for businesses, students and communities, he said, but it has to come with strong rules that protect consumers and safeguard national interests.
Representatives of the Communications Regulatory Authority explained that Starlink has been authorised to operate under the national regulatory framework, and that the Authority will make sure the company meets local laws, technical standards and consumer protection requirements. They noted that satellite broadband can reach places where laying conventional infrastructure is difficult.
Officials were clear on one practical point. Unlike ordinary broadband, Starlink needs its receiver installed in an open spot with a clear view of the sky. Trees, buildings and other obstructions can weaken the signal, so customers should check the proposed installation site carefully before they commit.
Subscriptions are already available through Starlink’s online platform, where customers can sign up, order the hardware kit and complete the process themselves. Officials confirmed that a number of people in Seychelles have already bought kits and are using the service.
The press conference also gave journalists the chance to ask about the rollout, licensing arrangements, subscription steps and the effect the new option is expected to have on the local telecommunications sector.
Tuesday’s event was a soft launch. A formal launch will be held at a later date and is expected to include representatives from Starlink. Officials said the phased approach lets the company keep building its local operations while consumers begin using the service now.
