Pakistan Prepares for Satellite Internet as Starlink Receives Approval
On Friday, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) granted approval for issuing a no-objection certificate (NoC) to Starlink, the U.S.-based satellite-internet company. This step is expected to significantly enhance the nation’s digital environment.
The Information Technology Minister, Shanza Fatima Khawaja, stated that Starlink has received provisional registration in Pakistan under the orders of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This decision was made after reaching an agreement amongst all relevant security and regulatory authorities.
Sources indicate that the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) was anticipated to grant the license to Starlink within the coming fortnight. Nevertheless, they mentioned that the firm could require up to a year before commencing operations for Pakistani customers.
Starlink, which belongs to technology tycoon Elon Musk, has been formally registered with Pakistan’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SECP). The company is now known as Starlink Internet Services (Private) Limited in the region. They have also submitted an application seeking permission to set up two or three earth-based facilities within the country.
On February 24, 2022, Starlink initially filed for a long-distance international (LDI) license. Furthermore, on April 29, 2022, they also requested 14 Local Loop licenses as part of their efforts to deliver satellite-provided web access.
As per information from PTA sources, the PSARB has sanctioned the release of an NOC once Starlink met all the criteria set forth by the Space Regulatory Board (SRB). This board enforces both the National Satellite Policy established in 2023 and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules introduced in 2024.
Approval from the PSARB marks the second phase in obtaining the license in Pakistan. Having already registered with the SECP and the Pakistan Software Export Board, securing the PTA license will now serve as the last step before they commence their operations.
In a statement, IT Minister Khawaja remarked that approving satellite internet marked a significant step towards Pakistan’s digital future. She stated, “Under the ‘whole of government’ strategy, we have collaborated extensively with various entities to enhance internet services.”
Solutions such as satellite internet can significantly improve connectivity, especially in under-serviced and distant regions of Pakistan," she noted. She conveyed her hope that with Starlink entering the Pakistani market, formal satellite internet services would commence, heralding a new chapter in the nation’s digital communication.
Furnished by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
