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Starlink’s entry into the Pakistani market has encountered a significant setback, as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to withhold the issuance of a licence until the company secures permanent registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), sources informed TechJuice.
According to the sources, the PTA does not possess the mandate to grant a full licence based merely on a temporary registration. Starlink had initially received temporary registration from PSARB on March 21, 2025. The regulatory policies regarding Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operations have not yet been completely established. The PSARB has entrusted an international consultant with the responsibility of developing comprehensive regulations for LEO satellite systems to expedite the process.
The permanent registration checklist for Starlink and other satellite internet providers will be finalised at the conclusion of rulemaking and the definition of all technical and regulatory stipulations.
In light of the current circumstances, the PTA has decided not to proceed with the licensing procedure for Starlink operations. After the company completes the registration procedure at PSARB, the licensing authority will issue a permanent registration to Starlink.
Shaza Fatima, the IT Minister, previously informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology that Starlink initiatives and competing services from Shanghai Space would commence their satellite internet services between November and December 2025. The current licensing dispute poses a risk of postponing the commencement of satellite internet services.
Starlink representatives have confirmed that they are in a holding pattern pending final governmental approvals. They emphasised that only PTA and other relevant authorities could provide definitive clarification regarding the causes and duration of the delay.
Meanwhile, Starlink continues to work on essential preparatory activities, including the deployment of infrastructure, but its official launch remains contingent upon the fulfilment of Pakistan’s evolving legal and regulatory frameworks.
