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The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication informed the National Assembly (NA) that STARLINK and other satellite broadband companies/LEO Satellite operators are making progress toward launching operations in Pakistan. However, the globally renowned satellite broadband service provider has yet to meet the necessary conditions to secure a license.
According to a recent statement by Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima, submitted to the National Assembly of Pakistan, STARLINK registered with the SECP in December 2021 as “STARLINK Internet Services Pakistan (Private) Ltd.” They subsequently applied for an LDI license with the PTA on February 24, 2022, for broadband services. “In parallel, they are also in commercial negotiations with local companies/service providers to start commercial operations,” the National Assembly was further informed.
It was also noted that several national agencies, including FAB, SPD, SUPARCO/Pakistan, and others, had conducted a comprehensive analysis and made various observations regarding the technical, legal, financial, and commercial aspects of STARLINK specifically and LEO/NGSO satellite constellations in general.
The statement highlighted that STARLINK had been approached about the identified issues, but they have shown reluctance in addressing the technical and legal concerns raised by stakeholders.
Moreover, it was mentioned that this is the first time a license application for NGSO has been submitted in Pakistan, and there are serious concerns about potential interference between NGSO and GSO, which has extended the process. However, the time taken and concerns raised are typical and would apply to other countries worldwide as well.
