Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, met with Starlink representatives on Tuesday to discuss their licensing progress.
Elon Musk owns Starlink Services as a global leader in providing internet through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The company, registered with Pakistan’s SECP, is waiting for the government to finalize a regulatory framework for LEO satellite landing rights.
Currently, internet service providers in Pakistan use 13 high-orbit satellites for internet and four for TV channel communications under Pemra’s license.
These geosynchronous orbit satellites sit around 3,600 kilometres above Earth. In contrast, LEO satellites orbit between 300 and 500 kilometres, offering direct internet to individuals and businesses.
Due to frequent internet interruptions last year, mainly for political reasons, many IT firms with overseas clients have switched to Starlink for reliable service.
A senior IT executive mentioned using Starlink’s service through UK-sourced equipment. Despite the cost of 750 pounds a month, the company enjoys stable operations and good internet speed.
With no Starlink infrastructure in Pakistan, IT companies pay their subscription fees internationally.
However, a senior PTA official warned that using such services without authorization is illegal, and violators could face penalties.
Starlink’s next steps include securing regulatory approval from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board and a PTA operational license.
Read: Elon Musk Confirms Starlink’s Bid to Launch Internet Services in Pakistan
Shaza Fatima also chaired a meeting to develop a regulatory framework for LEO satellites in Pakistan. The meeting focused on hiring consultants soon to draft these regulations.
She stressed the importance of aligning Pakistan’s satellite technology policies with global standards to maximize national growth and development.
