Archive · 27 May 2025
South Africa Denies Policy Favors Starlink Amid Ownership Concerns
South Africa is considering changing its rules about who can own parts of tech companies, like Starlink.
Some people worry these changes favor Elon Musk's Starlink.
The government says these changes are not just for Starlink and will open the market to more companies.
The old rules required companies to have Black shareholders, but the new plan might allow for other ways to invest.
Some politicians and people like Khusela Diko question why this is happening now, while the minister denies any special treatment for Starlink.
The new rules aim to boost competition.
South Africa's minister denies that a draft policy is designed to benefit Starlink.
The policy proposes easing requirements for Black ownership in tech firms.
The minister says the policy aims to increase competition and isn't just for Starlink.
Musk previously criticized Black ownership laws and said Starlink was unable to get a license.
Stakeholders and the public can provide feedback on the policy.
- Who
- South African Communications Minister Solly Malatsi, Elon Musk, lawmakers, and stakeholders.
- What
- Minister's defense of draft policy changes regarding Black ownership requirements in the tech sector.
- When
- Recently
- Where
- South Africa
- Why
- To address criticism of the proposed policy changes and accusations it favors Starlink.
Critics
Government
Policy Intent
Critics
Critics and some lawmakers question if the policy favors Starlink and if the timing is right, especially following Elon Musk's claims.
Government
The government says the policy aims to boost competition and is not specifically for Starlink.
Black Ownership Requirements
Critics
Some question the impact the potential easing of requirements would have on Black economic empowerment.
Government
The proposed policy may ease existing rules that require a percentage of ownership to be Black.
- Minister
- Solly Malatsi
- Proposed Policy Change
- Easing of Black ownership requirements
- Existing Law
- Foreign companies must have 30% Black shareholders.
- Stakeholder Feedback
- 30 days for public comment
- Accusation
- Policy benefits Starlink
