Starlink Gets Registered in Pakistan; IT Minister Discusses Licensing Progress | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

Starlink Gets Registered in Pakistan; IT Minister Discusses Licensing Progress

Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecom, met with a delegation from Starlink on January 7 to discuss the progress of their licensing.

Starlink, an Elon Musk-owned company renowned for its cutting-edge Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, has completed registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). However, the company is awaiting approval from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) to receive satellite landing rights, a critical requirement before it can operate in Pakistan. Once this approval is granted, the final step will be securing an operational license from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), allowing the company to deliver its services to users.

“The Space Board Authority is currently reviewing various technical aspects, and we have communicated updates to Starlink,” the minister stated.

Pakistan is addressing the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, by expanding internet access through advanced satellite technology. The country currently relies on 13 high-orbit satellites, which provide services such as TV broadcasting through PEMRA-licensed channels. However, Starlink’s LEO satellites, which operate much closer to Earth, are expected to provide consumers more direct, high-speed internet services.

With Pakistan’s internet infrastructure facing challenges such as slow speeds and intermittent outages, especially last year due to political factors, businesses have started turning to Starlink. A senior executive from one such company using Starlink through equipment sourced from UK, noted: “The rates are as high as 750 pounds per month, but we are confident in smooth business operations, as the internet speed with Starlink is also satisfactory”.

The PTA has cautioned that using foreign satellite internet services, including Starlink, is illegal and action can be taken if users are caught.


Comments are closed.