Vodafone Fiji has been announced as the newest authorized reseller of Starlink satellite Internet services, marking its position as the second subsidiary of Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH) to join in less than five months. This announcement was made last week.
The collaboration is set to bring advanced satellite internet technology to Fiji, aligning with Vodafone Fiji’s vision of providing innovative connectivity solutions to the Fijian community. By utilizing Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites, Vodafone Fiji aims to offer enterprise customers reliable high-speed internet access in even the most remote parts of the country.
Starlink’s entry into the Pacific presents both challenges and opportunities for ATH, which has expanded its mobile telephone services across several Pacific nations under the Vodafone brand, along with subsea cable internet services. In its latest annual report, ATH acknowledged that while Starlink represents a significant competitive option at the retail level, it also creates opportunities to improve services and address the digital divide by connecting underserved communities effectively.
ATH’s CEO, Ivan Fong, noted that Telecom Fiji Ltd (TFL) is collaborating with Starlink to utilize satellite technology that will enhance reach and connectivity in the region. However, he raised concerns about data sovereignty, information security, as well as compliance with various regulations and tax laws related to the rise of low-Earth orbit satellites.
Mr. Fong emphasized the need for uniform terms and conditions among all internet service providers to maintain fair competition. The recent launch of Starlink in the Cook Islands has had a direct negative impact on Vodafone Cook Islands, another ATH subsidiary, which reported a 12 percent drop in internet revenue due to Starlink’s market entry.
Earlier this July, Telecom Fiji had become the first ATH subsidiary to act as a Starlink reseller in Fiji.
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