Starlink has temporarily suspended sales and activation of new subscriptions in Tajikistan, citing government regulations and the high cost of ground network infrastructure.

However, the country’s Communications Service says it has imposed no restrictions and is demanding an explanation from the satellite internet provider, Asia-Plus reports.

One customer said that Starlink had cancelled his order and issued a full refund. He learned about the suspension through an email from the company.

“Due to government regulations and the high cost of ground network infrastructure in Tajikistan, which Starlink is required to use, we are unable to connect new customers until further notice. We are cancelling your order and issuing a full refund,” the email stated.

The company added that it remained committed to providing affordable and reliable connectivity throughout Tajikistan.

In response to an inquiry from Asia-Plus, the Communications Service under the Government of Tajikistan denied introducing any restrictions on the sale, connection, or activation of new Starlink subscriptions.

According to the regulator, Starlink did not notify the agency in advance of its intention to suspend new sales and activations. The service has sent the company an official request seeking a detailed explanation of the reasons behind its decision.

The regulator also disputed Starlink’s reference to high ground infrastructure costs as a reason for the suspension. It said the satellite internet provider has an existing agreement with a local operator for communication channels, with technical and commercial terms previously agreed upon by all parties.

“The company’s reference to the high cost of ground infrastructure as a reason for suspending connections requires further clarification, since the previously agreed tariffs have not been revised or increased,” the agency said.

The Communications Service stressed that the decision to suspend new subscriptions was made by Starlink, not the Tajik side, and did not result from restrictions imposed by the regulator.

The agency said Tajikistan remained ready to provide the necessary communication channels and arrange international connectivity through transit partners to the nearest ground station in the Starlink satellite network.

It also confirmed that existing customers would continue receiving services under the company’s established terms, with no additional restrictions imposed on them.

The timing of the resumption of new connections is up to Starlink, the regulator said.

According to the Communications Service, Starlink currently has more than 6,000 active subscribers in Tajikistan.