ISLAMABAD – Starlink, the satellite-based internet service owned by Elon Musk, is expected to begin operations in Pakistan by November or December 2025, according to Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja.
Temporary Registration Approved
During a recent meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Aminul Haq, the minister announced that Starlink has received temporary registration in Pakistan. The approval followed the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Khawaja stated that a temporary No-Objection Certificate (NOC) was issued after consensus among all relevant security and regulatory bodies.
PTA and PSARB Confirm Licensing Process
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) informed the committee that the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) granted Starlink a temporary licence.
The PTA chairman clarified that a full operating licence will be issued once the regulatory framework for satellite internet services is finalized.
No Major Regulatory Barriers
Addressing concerns raised by the committee, IT Minister Khawaja assured members that no major regulatory obstacles remain. She noted that satellite internet is a relatively new technology in Pakistan, requiring thorough technical review.
To facilitate the process, the government has appointed international consultants to help finalize the regulations. Once completed, Starlink will need to reapply for a permanent licence.
Emergence of a Competitive Market
Khawaja also revealed that a Chinese company, Shanghai SpaceCom, has applied for a satellite internet licence in Pakistan. The government aims to foster competition in the market by encouraging multiple operators.
Infrastructure Installation Underway
Starlink’s physical infrastructure is expected to be installed in the coming months. The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite system will operate at an altitude of 250 to 500 kilometers, ensuring high-speed internet connectivity across Pakistan.
Operational Timeline and Technical Clearances
Although initial services may begin by year-end, complete rollout across the country could take up to one year, due to technical and regulatory formalities.
Key technical aspects, including frequency allocation, power regulations, and earth gateway station setup, have been addressed by the PSARB to facilitate the process.
