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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to welcome Starlink’s satellite internet services by November or December this year, as confirmed by Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima during a briefing to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology.
The minister clarified that no licensing obstacles remain for Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service. However, given the emerging nature of satellite internet, she noted that the government is carefully shaping a comprehensive regulatory framework. A consultant has already been hired to help finalize the policy and address various aspects of the technology’s deployment in Pakistan.
Once the policy framework is complete, Starlink will need to reapply for a formal license, the minister explained.
Adding a new dimension to Pakistan’s satellite internet future, Shaza Fatima also revealed that Chinese tech firm Shanghai Spacecom has shown interest and submitted an application to provide similar services in the country.
During the session, PTA Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeez-ur-Rehman provided further insight. He stated that while Starlink currently holds a temporary license, a full commercial license is pending until the finalized regulatory guidelines are implemented. “The license is in the issuance phase, but Starlink must reapply once the new rules are in place,” he confirmed.
The meeting wrapped up with optimism, as authorities anticipate Starlink’s infrastructure to be fully deployed within the next few months, potentially making the service available before the end of 2025.
