New BEE Rules Could Open the Door for Starlink
Big changes are on the horizon for B-BBEE compliance in South Africa’s telecoms sector. In a policy move that’s already sparking debate, government is proposing to ease the traditional 30% Black ownership requirement—specifically for foreign telecom firms like Starlink.
Instead of mandatory equity handovers, companies could now satisfy BEE targets through Equity Equivalent Investment Programmes (EEPs). These would allow foreign investors to plough funds into Black-owned businesses, local suppliers, or skills development without giving up ownership.
Why it matters to you
If you're advising global clients or multinationals, this creates new strategic planning levers.
EEPs come with compliance, reporting, and governance responsibilities—ripe for value-added advisory.
In commerce, finance teams must anticipate new risk, audit, and oversight requirements.
What’s the catch?
Some are calling it progress. Others are calling it preferential treatment. As one wag put it: “Everyone is equal—but some are more equal than others.” The irony hasn’t been lost on local businesses still grappling with the full weight of ownership compliance.
The facts
The proposed policy was gazetted on 23 May 2025, with public comment open until 7 July.
It's pitched as a way to fast-track investment, boost rural connectivity, and modernise BEE in the ICT sector.
But it also raises serious questions about fairness, consistency, and the future of transformation in South Africa.
The opportunity
For accountants, this is a signal to move beyond compliance tick-boxing into real strategy. Whether you’re in practice or commerce, your clients will need guidance to interpret, plan, and act on what comes next. This shift could reshape B-BBEE—and the way your clients engage with it. Time to stay sharp, stay informed, and make your advisory role count.
🔗 Join the conversation. Submit your comments. And if your clients haven’t asked about this yet—they will.
