–as number portability ushers in new era for Guyana’s telecommunication sector

THE Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has issued a strong warning to the public about unauthorised sellers of Starlink internet services, with the body stating that no individual or organisation is currently allowed to retail Starlink (Guyana) Inc services on behalf of the company.

This notice comes during a period of major transformation in the telecommunication sector, with the introduction of number portability just recently and the introduction of Starlink to the market.

During a meeting with Starlink and the PUC’s representatives on March 17, 2024, Starlink reiterated that all transactions regarding its services — payments, registration, and customer enquiries — must only be conducted through its official website.

The company has not entered into arrangements with third parties to resell its services in the local area, and any solicitations to sell Starlink service or equipment through social media or other channels are not company-sanctioned.

The PUC has observed a rise in unauthorised Starlink service advertisements on social media, with some resellers offering at prices significantly higher than those approved by the commission.

For example, while the official monthly prices for Starlink’s “Residential” and “Residential Lite” plans are $11,000 and $7,400 respectively, some resellers have been selling subscriptions as high as $27,500 to $79,000 a month. Even the standard equipment packages listed at $82,000 and $42,000 on Starlink’s website are being sold by these unauthorised sellers at a higher price.

The PUC has made it abundantly clear that such practices are illegal and the commission will take legal action against persons or entities found to be in violation of the approved rates and regulations.

Only rates approved by the PUC are permitted and Starlink has formally disassociated itself from any party providing services or equipment at unapproved prices.

This regulatory action comes as Guyana’s telecommunication sector marked a milestone with the introduction of number portability on February 10, 2025.

The service allows mobile and fixed-line customers to switch network operators while retaining their existing phone numbers, a move set to spur greater competition, innovation, and customer choice in the sector.

The PUC has embraced this breakthrough as a welcome addition, particularly because it is being complemented by the introduction of Starlink, whose satellite offers are poised to close the digital divide in underserved and unserved regions of the country.

The commission urged consumers to go to its official website in order to be advised on approved telephone rates and refrain from trading with unauthorised resellers. The PUC said it remains committed to the protection of consumer interest and to a fair, competitive, and progressive telecommunication industry for all Guyanese.