China clears Geely for landmark satellite IoT test to spur commercial space sector

SCMP | Aug. 21, 2026, 2 a.m. | Original

A rendering of Geespace’s push to deploy proprietary orbital networks. Photo: Handout

China has approved its first private-sector commercial trial for satellite Internet of Things (IoT) services, granting a permit to a Geely-backed venture as part of broader efforts to open the country’s burgeoning satellite communications market to private capital.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) granted Zhejiang Geespace Technology, the commercial space subsidiary of electric vehicle giant Geely, a two-year trial period, according to a notice published on the ministry’s website on Thursday.

Geespace will provide low-power, wide-coverage connectivity across sectors including smart transport, marine fisheries, energy, and water infrastructure.

The decision makes Geespace the first private Chinese company to secure approval for a satellite IoT commercial trial, underscoring Beijing’s push to accelerate the development of its commercial space sector.

In May, MIIT issued the country’s first satellite IoT trial permit to Beijing Guodian High-Tech Technology, an entity backed by state-owned China Mobile, the nation’s largest wireless carrier.

China becomes first nation to recover orbital launch rockets with 2 distinct paths

Satellite IoT delivers low-speed data services through satellite networks to link sensors, vehicles and equipment.

Chinese regulators slap US$7.8m penalty on Guotai Haitong arm amid capital flow crackdown Anger over Japanese influencer Gamix’s ‘slant-eyed’ jibe at K-pop star San