ISLAMABAD: Starlink is anticipated to launch its satellite-based internet services in Pakistan by November or December this year, according to IT Minister Shaza Fatima, who briefed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology during a meeting held on Monday.
The minister stated that there are currently no obstacles in the licensing process.
However, she emphasized that satellite internet is an emerging technology, which requires a comprehensive and cautious approach. To that end, a consultant has been engaged to develop the final regulatory framework.
Once the regulatory guidelines are finalized, Starlink will be required to submit a fresh application for a full operational license, she added.
Minister Shaza further informed the committee that Shanghai Spacecom, a Chinese company, has also applied to provide satellite internet services in Pakistan, indicating growing interest in the country’s connectivity landscape.
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In his briefing to the committee, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeez-ur-Rehman shared that while Starlink has been issued a temporary license.
A permanent license will only be granted after the regulatory framework is officially completed.
He noted that the licensing process is currently underway, and Starlink will need to reapply once the new policies are in effect.
The meeting ended with optimism that Starlink’s infrastructure rollout would be completed in the coming months, allowing for commercial launch of services by the end of the year.
