Regulatory Clearance Paves Way for Starlink’s Entry
In a major development, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA) has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, confirming that the company has met all necessary regulatory requirements, sources revealed.
Following clearance from the Ministry of Interior, PSARA’s approval has set the stage for Starlink’s operations in Pakistan.
PTA to Issue Licenses Within Two Weeks
According to sources, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to issue the final licenses to Starlink within the next two weeks. The company has already submitted its application and provided the PTA with detailed technical and business plans.
Starlink has successfully completed three registration phases in Pakistan, securing approvals from:
- The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)
- The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
- The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA)
The final step in the process involves obtaining registration from the PTA, after which Starlink can officially commence its services in the country. The PTA is currently reviewing the submitted documents to ensure that Starlink’s operations do not interfere with existing networks.
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Pakistan’s National Satellite Policy and Space Reforms
Pakistan introduced its National Satellite Policy in 2023, followed by the implementation of Space Activities Rules in 2024 to strengthen space communication infrastructure. These regulatory changes have paved the way for international satellite companies like Starlink to enter Pakistan’s internet market.
Federal IT Minister Confirms Temporary Registration
Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed that Starlink has been granted temporary registration in Pakistan following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“With the consensus of all security and regulatory bodies, Starlink has been issued a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC),” she stated.
She further explained that the PTA will oversee Starlink’s compliance with licensing fees and other regulatory requirements.
Boosting Digital Transformation in Pakistan
Khawaja highlighted that under the prime minister’s leadership, Pakistan is making significant progress toward digital transformation. She emphasized that the approval of Starlink’s satellite-based internet services is a milestone in modernizing the country’s internet infrastructure.
“The prime minister has directed comprehensive reforms to enhance Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, and Starlink’s registration is a major step forward in this journey,” she added.
Satellite Internet to Improve Connectivity in Remote Areas
Calling Starlink’s approval a breakthrough, the minister stated that satellite-based internet solutions will significantly enhance connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote regions of Pakistan.
With Starlink’s imminent arrival, Pakistan’s internet landscape is set for a major transformation, promising faster and more reliable connectivity across the country.
