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Major global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operators, including Starlink, OneWeb, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, are setting their sights on entering Pakistan’s satellite communications market. However, sources informed TechJuice that their operations continue to be hindered by regulatory delays.
Reports indicate that none of these companies have received the essential No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), the body responsible for regulating outer space and upper atmosphere activities by the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024.
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has been diligently working for more than four years to obtain the necessary approval to operate in Pakistan. The organization asserts that it has adhered to all regulatory and security mandates, collaborating closely with the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and other pertinent agencies to fulfill the nation’s rigorous standards.
Despite the execution of a retail agreement with Paksat and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Starlink has yet to obtain the NOC necessary for licensing from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The delay has been conveyed to the authorities at various levels, including the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Starlink’s proposed investment in Pakistan encompasses millions of dollars allocated for the enhancement of local network infrastructure. This investment includes the acquisition of colocation space in data centers, the establishment of fiber optic connectivity, and the procurement of construction materials. The company intends to allocate recurring expenditures for operational necessities, which may yield advantages for local enterprises, including Paksat.
Although regulatory challenges persist, government has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting digital inclusion through the PSARB, which has been established to oversee satellite-based services. Industry experts underscore the necessity of expediting the approval process to effectively harness LEO technologies to enhance the nation’s digital transformation.
