Nepal Rejects Musk’s Demand for Full Ownership, Starlink Service Expansion Put on Hold

Nepal's government has refused Elon Musk's company, Starlink, the demand for full ownership and operational control within the country. This decision directly impacts the planned expansion of Starlink's satellite internet service, halting its immediate rollout. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology cited regulatory requirements and the need to protect national interests as the primary reasons for rejecting the ownership request.

This situation highlights a growing tension between global tech companies seeking to deploy services and national governments asserting their authority over infrastructure and data. Nepal's stance suggests a preference for local partnership or a more regulated foreign investment model, potentially setting a precedent for other nations considering similar high-tech infrastructure projects. The delay in Starlink's service means that Nepal will continue to face challenges with internet accessibility and affordability, particularly in remote and mountainous regions.