The government of Antigua and Barbuda is taking steps to enforce the collection of Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) on Starlink’s satellite internet service, following revelations that the company has not been paying the required levy.
Minister for Information Melford Nicholas confirmed that authorities have identified between 100 and 200 users of the service in the country. Unlike local telecommunications providers, which are required to collect and remit ABST, Starlink has not been doing so.
“We do know that there are over 100 people utilizing Starlink at the moment,” Hurst said.
“The other telecommunications companies must pay an ABST on the services they provide to consumers. Starlink, because of its direct connection with the customer, does not have to report—or rather, it is not reporting—the companies or persons utilizing its services.”
Hurst indicated that the government intends to rectify this situation, ensuring that the 17% ABST is applied to Starlink’s operations in Antigua and Barbuda. However, he stressed that discussions remain ongoing and there is no intention to disrupt the service.
“There was no discussion about disrupting the service. The focus was on collecting the taxes that are owed, because all telecommunications companies must pay the ABST—17% on the value of the service they provide.”
Asked whether Starlink had responded to the government’s position, Hurst said no update had been provided during Wednesday’s Cabinet session.
The satellite internet service, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has grown in popularity among businesses, visiting yachts, and private users due to its high-speed connectivity. The government now aims to ensure that its operations align with national tax regulations.
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This is so for years and the government did nothing. And I am sure it is not big money. But suddenly little Antigua and Barbuda wants to take on the most powerful and vindictive person in the world, Elon Musk. Good luck with that. Nothing is wrong with trying to enforce and collext taxes but it did not need a headline. Melford’s stupidity and nuffness may cost Antigua.
Starlink operates in Barbados, Trinidad, Jamaica legally and licensed. How do those countries collect applicable taxes?
Be careful, don’t be stupid Melford.
The growing number of Starlink users in Antigua highlights the demand for better internet services, and it’s encouraging to see technological advancements providing more options for consumers. However, the fact that the company has not been paying ABST is unacceptable. Local businesses and residents are required to pay their taxes, so international companies should not be exempt. Authorities need to take firm action to ensure compliance while also maintaining a balance so that consumers continue to have access to competitive internet services.
it’s concerning that the company has not been paying the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST). Every business operating in the country should be held accountable for its tax obligations, just like local companies. The government must ensure that multinational corporations contribute fairly to the economy.
People in Antigua subscribe to all kind of services online such that they are not paying the ABST. People are able to watch TV, get professional services and other stuff without paying the necessary sales tax. The government needs to ensure that these provider of services to Antigua pay the ABST. Let them know that they can’t beat the system.
Legalise it….
Asking for a friend so don’t shoot me… Does this mean that the Goverment will go after what’s app, viber, Skype, just to name a few? Because these are all alternatives when it comes to telecoms
It’s crazy to me that the government jus can’t bear to see people jus be independently able to get something without being taxed it’s like you just trying to do the best at being greedy
To clarify because there’s alot of chupid people.
Government, I urge you to get taxes from:
1. Netflix, YouTube, Hulu for subscribers in Antigua.
2. Amazon and Shein, for those who buy from them but ship to Antigua through Kess, etc.
3. Att, T-Mobile, Verizon, for tourists who use roaming in Antigua.
4. VPN providers, for those who use VPN to gain access to overseas entertainment.
This is a stupid request. Starlink doesn’t operate in Antigua, but gives users needed access to better quality Internet. Rather than being fools, work with them to officially bring the service here since it clear its much needed.
@ Mr Really
I was wondering if I had missed something. If they’re not operating in Antigua and Barbuda, as it’s satellite, and they’re not using any public or private infrastructure in the state, why do you charge ABST? I am not seeing the link, and if someone could let me know, it would benefit my education