Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, will have to wait longer before launching services in Pakistan, as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided not to issue a license until the company secures permanent registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB).
According to sources cited by ProPakistani, the PTA lacks the authority to grant a license based on the temporary registration currently held by Starlink. The PSARB issued this temporary status on March 21, but it does not meet the criteria for license issuance under current regulatory frameworks.
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To move forward, the PSARB has hired an international consultant to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Once finalized, this framework will include a checklist for permanent registration as well as technical and compliance standards required for companies like Starlink.
Until this process is complete and Starlink obtains full registration, the PTA has confirmed it will not proceed with issuing a license for satellite internet operations in the country.
