PTA to Begin Issuing Fixed Satellite Service Licences in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to issue licences for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) in Pakistan, aiming to enhance satellite-based communication services within the country while ensuring adherence to national regulations and laws.

The licence will allow the approved entity to provide a range of satellite services, including fixed earth stations, fixed gateway earth stations, fixed terminal earth stations, and related terrestrial transmission facilities.

The licence requires the holder to begin services within 18 months of the licence’s effective date and fulfill several financial obligations. These include a one-time Initial Licence Fee (ILF) of $500,000, an annual Licence Fee (ALF) amounting to 0.5% of the gross revenue from licenced services, a 1.5% contribution to the Universal Service Fund (USF) based on the same revenue, and an annual Radio Frequency Spectrum Fee of 0.5% of gross revenue.

Additionally, the licensee will be required to pay a one-time registration fee of $1,000 to $1,500 per station for infrastructure setup, though no registration fee will apply to fixed terminal earth stations.

The licence has specific exclusions, such as prohibiting services related to the terrestrial-only public switched networks, exclusive dependence on terrestrial network components, satellite services on moving objects, Mobile Satellite Services (MSS), and the broadcasting or distribution of radio and television programs.

Licensees must also comply with various regulations, including the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024 and the directives issued by the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).

In addition, the PTA is seeking public feedback on the proposed Fixed Satellite Service Licence, with the deadline for submissions set for February 14, 2025.