Vietnam Greenlights SpaceX Starlink Internet Trial Until 2030

Vietnam has approved a trial launch of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, allowing the U.S.-based company to operate in the country until the end of 2030. The move marks a significant step in expanding Vietnam's digital infrastructure while possibly strengthening trade ties with the United States amid global tariff concerns.

The Vietnamese government announced that there will be no restrictions on foreign ownership for the Starlink service. While it remains unclear if SpaceX has formally applied for an operating license, the approval permits the company to offer both fixed and mobile internet plans across Vietnam. This includes high-speed satellite connectivity even on flights, opening up broader access in remote and underserved areas.

Starlink, currently available in over 120 countries, aims to deliver low-latency, high-speed internet using its growing constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. The Vietnamese government has capped the number of users for the trial period at 600,000, signaling a cautious yet forward-looking approach to satellite internet adoption.

Analysts believe Vietnam’s decision could be strategically motivated to avoid potential U.S. trade penalties, positioning the Southeast Asian nation as a more attractive partner for American tech companies. With rising demand for faster, more reliable internet, especially in rural and mountainous regions, Starlink’s entry could enhance digital inclusion and drive innovation.

The trial period offers SpaceX an opportunity to demonstrate the service’s value in Vietnam’s competitive telecom market. If successful, it may pave the way for full-scale deployment and long-term partnerships in the region. The government’s support suggests a growing openness to advanced foreign technology solutions as Vietnam accelerates its digital transformation.