Elon Musk Backs Starlink’s Launch in Pakistan Amid Regulatory Hurdles
On January 4, 2025, SpaceX owner Elon Musk confirmed he was awaiting approval from the Pakistani government to launch Starlink’s satellite-based internet services in the country. Musk made the statement in a response to a tweet on X (formerly Twitter), noting that the government’s clearance was essential for Starlink’s operations.
This development follows a recent tweet from Richard Grenell, the US President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Special Envoy for Special Missions, who urged Musk to include Pakistan in Starlink’s service expansion plans.
Meanwhile, on the same day, Shaza Fatima, Pakistan’s Minister of State for IT, stated that Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. had submitted its application for a license. She clarified that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was only processing applications from companies that were officially registered with the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
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Challenges in Starlink’s Entry to Pakistan
Despite Starlink’s interest in expanding its services to Pakistan, the process is encountering delays due to various regulatory and technical challenges. Sources close to the matter informed ProPakistani that the federal government and Starlink are still in the early stages of discussing the necessary licensing for the satellite internet service.
The PTA confirmed that Starlink’s application is currently undergoing preliminary review. According to officials, the agency is evaluating the technical requirements for bandwidth, uplinking capabilities, and gateway infrastructure. Additionally, Pakistan’s National Space Agency (SUPARCO) is conducting its own assessment under the framework of the National Space Policy.
Before moving forward, Starlink will need to address several technical aspects raised by these regulatory bodies. Once SUPARCO grants approval, Starlink will still need the PTA’s regulatory clearance to begin offering its services.
Internet Disruptions in Pakistan and the Need for Starlink
Pakistan has faced ongoing internet disruptions for over a year, with the government often citing submarine cable faults and national security concerns as the primary reasons behind these issues. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have been significantly affected, with access to the platform banned in Pakistan since February 17, 2024.
The introduction of Starlink in Pakistan could provide a reliable alternative, offering internet services even in remote areas where traditional infrastructure may be lacking. However, it remains to be seen how soon the regulatory hurdles can be cleared.
