Any company operating in the Broadcasting or Telecommunications Sector is required to be registered with and abide by the rules of the NTRC.
What is Broadcasting?
Broadcasting involves the distribution of audio and/or video content for direct reception by the general public via sound, television or other types of transmission, on a free, pay, subscription or other basis.
The broadcasting sector encompasses different types of electronic broadcasting media such as: radio stations, television stations, cable television, satellite television and satellite radio and webcasting.
What Does Telecommunications Involve?
The Telecommunications Sector involves all entities that transmit signals over a distance for the purpose of communication.
Modern telecommunications is now electronic and digital, and includes the use of telephones, telegraphs, radio and microwave communications, fiber optics, orbiting satellites and the internet.
In accordance with Section 5 of the Telecommunications Act No 2 of 2000, the following services and/or activities require licences in order to operate legitimately in the Federation:
- Telecommunications Networks
- Telecommunications Services
- Radio-communication Stations or Apparatus (this includes on ships, aircraft, satellite or vessels registered in St Christopher and Nevis, or operating in or over the territorial waters of the Federation.)
- Radio Transmitting Station or Apparatus
Additionally, any of these services requiring the use of frequency spectrum must be granted a frequency authorisation by ECTEL.
There are three categories of licences: Individual Licences, Class Licences and Radio Licences.
For more information and details about licences, please see for the Telecommunications Act No 2 of 2000.