International Satellite Companies Seek Licenses to Operate in Pakistan
State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, informed the National Assembly that two major international entities, Elon Musk’s Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. and Chinese satellite company Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, have applied for licenses to operate in Pakistan.
In her written statement, the minister clarified that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is currently processing applications only from companies registered with the Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). As per PTA’s licensing framework, only locally registered companies are eligible to apply. While international companies cannot directly submit applications, they can do so through their SECP-registered subsidiaries. Starlink, a satellite-based internet service provider owned by SpaceX, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, a Chinese satellite communication firm, are both seeking to expand operations in Pakistan under this regulatory framework.
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The minister emphasized that the licensing process is straightforward once an application is submitted. PTA evaluates applications after ensuring all formal requirements are fulfilled and obtaining security clearance from the Ministry of Interior, if needed. The introduction of the Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS) has simplified the procedure, enabling applicants to submit and track their documents online.
Additionally, the PTA is committed to maintaining high standards of internet connectivity across the country. It actively monitors the Quality of Service (QoS) provided by internet companies under the Fixed Broadband Quality of Service (QoS) Regulations, 2022, ensuring compliance with global benchmarks for reliability and performance.
This development reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on expanding its digital infrastructure and attracting global technology leaders to strengthen connectivity nationwide.
