Pakistan is on the verge of opening its lucrative digital market to global satellite internet providers. The government is actively finalizing rules for satellite broadband. Meanwhile, the Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) licensing framework will soon reach the Federal Cabinet for approval. This regulatory breakthrough has attracted major international players. Companies including SpaceX’s Starlink, OneWeb, Shanghai Spacecom 3 Satellite Technology, and Sateliot are currently eyeing entry into the local market.
The Regulatory Framework
Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed these developments in a written response. She stated that a comprehensive regulatory regime for satellite communications is in its advanced stages.
Satellite communications in the country operate under the National Space Policy. Under this policy, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) develops the regulatory framework. Consequently, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) manages the licensing of telecommunication services.
PSARB has already drafted the Satellite Communications Regulations. These rules cover both non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) and low-earth orbit (LEO) systems and are currently undergoing final consultations. Separately, PTA has finalized the FSS licensing framework. This framework is expected to go before the Federal Cabinet shortly.
The proposed regime aims to create a transparent, technology-neutral, and investment-friendly environment for both geostationary orbit (GSO) and LEO/NGSO operators.
Starlink Registers With SECP
Several global operators want to enter Pakistan. Starlink has already registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). The government has advised other interested operators to complete their SECP registration before proceeding with PSARB registration.
To ensure a smooth rollout, the government is aligning spectrum allocation with the licensing process. Therefore, PSARB is actively coordinating with the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and PTA. However, all operators must strictly comply with Pakistan’s spectrum management, licensing, and national security requirements before starting commercial operations.
Transforming the Digital Landscape
This development could significantly alter Pakistan’s connectivity landscape. The FSS framework will enable operators to offer satellite broadband, telecom backhaul, bandwidth provision, and corporate data services.
Satellite broadband serves as a key component of Pakistan’s digital strategy. It will connect remote and underserved communities where deploying conventional fiber and mobile networks remains commercially difficult. Furthermore, it will provide an additional layer of resilience to Pakistan’s overall communications infrastructure.
The rapid global expansion of LEO satellite constellations makes this move even more significant. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites, LEO systems operate much closer to Earth. As a result, they provide comparatively lower-latency connectivity.
Ultimately, bringing multiple international operators into a formally regulated market will introduce greater competition, expand coverage, and support digital inclusion across Pakistan.
