Taiwan’s push to bring satellite internet faces regulatory and national security hurdles after talks between Starlink and the national regulator stalled, prompting the Ministry of Digital Affairs to flag unresolved issues.

One potential workaround is Amazon Leo’s Optical Inter-Satellite Link, which could deliver service without traditional ground stations and may align more cleanly with Taiwan’s regulatory framework.

Taiwan has also signed memoranda of understanding with AST SpaceMobile, signaling ongoing exploration of multiple providers that might avoid major legislative tweaks.

Taiwan remains among a small group of Asian markets not yet served by Starlink, while alternative providers offer varying capabilities and regulatory challenges.

Taiwan is weighing regulatory easing or market-entry rule adjustments, though any legal changes would require the NCC to act, even as authorities express a generally supportive stance.

The government says it is pursuing several options but cannot disclose specifics due to non-disclosure agreements, underscoring a careful, multi-pronged approach to satellite internet access.

Other possible options in play include UK-based OneWeb, Amazon’s Leo constellation, and Canada’s Telesat, each bringing different satellite counts and regulatory/infrastructure considerations for Taiwan.

Starlink’s CEO has signaled Taiwan’s status could be influenced by broader diplomatic sensitivities, including the suggestion that Taiwan may be viewed under the China umbrella, adding another layer of hesitation.

Under Taiwan’s Telecommunications Act, Starlink faces restrictions on foreign ownership in first-category telecoms, complicating a wholly owned Starlink operation within the country.