On 9 December 2024, URCA published the Consultation Document titled “Regulatory Framework for Satellite-Based Electronic Communications Services in The Bahamas, ECS 75/2024” to seek stakeholder feedback on URCA’s initial proposals to update and establish a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the operation, licensing, and market access of satellite-based electronic communications networks and services within The Bahamas. The first consultation round closed on 17 January 2025.
During the first consultation round, URCA received responses from ten (10) parties, representing both domestic and international stakeholders. Stakeholder submissions provided valuable insights and feedback on the key policy, licensing, and technical considerations relevant to the development of the proposed Framework. Respondents also provided comments on significant topical matters, including the regulatory treatment of Direct-to-Device (“D2D”) services and Internet-of-Things (“IoT”) and Machine-to-Machine (“M2M”) applications, and the inclusion of provisions to promote the safe and sustainable use of space.
On 8 July 2025, URCA published the responses to the First Consultation Document to allow stakeholders to review and comment on the positions advanced by other respondents. Interested parties were invited to submit additional feedback by 29 August 2025.
Following URCA’s publication of the responses to the First Consultation Document, comments were received from numerous parties. Based on its review of stakeholder submissions, including both initial comments and responses to other respondents’ comments, URCA has identified several areas that warrant further clarification and discussion to ensure that the final Framework is comprehensive, and aligned with national policy objectives and international best practices.
The purpose and scope of this Consultation are to:
- Clarify the licensing structure applicable to satellite operators under URCA’s existing ECS regime.
- Introduce revised proposed spectrum fee models.
- Seek views on enabling emerging services such as D2D and Satellite-based IoT/M2M connectivity.
- Address space debris management and environmental sustainability, disaster management, and lawful, access and interception and data protection obligations.
- Invite stakeholder feedback and comments on URCA’s proposals.
URCA now invites formal written responses to this Second Consultation Document from all stakeholders and interested parties.
The Consultation Document, which includes information on how to respond and the deadline for responses can be found here: ECS 072025 Second Round Consultation on Satellite Framework.