Non-U.S.-Licensed Satellites Providing Domestic and International Service in the United States

In this final rule, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) adopts a new standard for foreign participation in the U.S. satellite services market consistent with the United States' obligations under the WTO Basic Telecom Agreement. The common sense rules and procedures we establish will provide opportunities for foreign entities to deliver satellite services in this country. The liberalized market conditions that will result from the WTO Basic Telecom Agreement will allow U.S. companies to enter previously closed foreign markets. These joint initiatives will benefit U.S. consumers by increasing the availability of various satellite services, providing more alternatives, reducing prices, and facilitating technological innovation. This new environment will encourage a more competitive satellite market in the United States, as well as spur development of broader, more global satellite systems. It will also foster greater opportunity for communications across national boundaries by making it easier for consumers worldwide to gain access to people, places, information, and ideas.