Elon Musk negotiates Starlink expansion in South Africa for Tesla battery factory deal

Elon Musk is in talks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to bring Starlink internet services to the country. The deal depends on South Africa relaxing its laws that require foreign companies to be at least 30% black-owned. In exchange for regulatory changes, Tesla could build a battery factory in South Africa, boosting local investment and job creation. This proposal aims to balance the country’s equity policies with Musk's business interests. Starlink already operates in several African nations, and expanding to South Africa would enhance connectivity in underserved areas. The negotiations reflect Musk's growing influence in global technology and investment discussions.