The tariff policies implemented by the Trump administration have had a significant impact on most Americans, resulting in increased financial pressure due to rising goods costs. However, one individual appears to be benefiting from this situation: Elon Musk. According to a report by the Washington Post, Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, has gained new interest from nations seeking to avoid the consequences of Trump’s tariffs.

The Post specifically mentions the small nation of Lesotho, which was unexpectedly subjected to a 50% tax when Trump announced his “reciprocal” penalties. Interestingly, two weeks after the tariffs were announced, Lesotho’s leadership met with Starlink representatives and signed a deal, making the company the country’s first-ever satellite internet service. Although coincidences can occur, it is noteworthy that Starlink has been striking deals with other countries, including Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Pakistan, Somalia, and Vietnam, around the same time the tariffs were being discussed and implemented.

A memo obtained by the Post reveals that there is an attempt to build a favorable relationship between Lesotho and the US. The internal State Department communication states, “As the government of Lesotho negotiates a trade deal with the United States, it hopes that licensing Starlink demonstrates goodwill and intent to welcome U.S. businesses.” It is likely that other nations have had similar thoughts about strategically aligning themselves with a company run by a prominent figure like Musk to gain relief from the tariffs.

While the Trump administration has not explicitly promoted Starlink to these countries, it has encouraged them to do business with US-based satellite internet firms. Notably, one prominent company comes to mind, and it appears that countries are treating Starlink favorably. For instance, India reportedly accelerated the approvals process for the company to facilitate trade deals, according to the Post.

Although lining Musk’s pockets may not be the primary objective of the Trump administration’s push for satellite internet, it is likely a beneficial side effect. Chinese companies are rapidly developing alternatives to Starlink, and the US aims to capture these markets before its competitors can. The US is using its leverage to promote American products, and it is interesting to note that this effort seems to consistently benefit Trump’s supporters, even if it is just a coincidence.