On Monday, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information Technology (IT) and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, revealed that Starlink services are expected to go live in the country by November or December of this year. Starlink, a satellite internet provider owned by tech mogul Elon Musk, is known for offering cutting-edge internet services via Low Earth Orbit satellites.
The announcement follows the granting of a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink last month, allowing it to operate in Pakistan. The decision was made by Pakistan’s IT ministry, which has been in talks with the company to facilitate its entry into the market.
During a briefing on Monday, the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT was informed that Starlink’s licensing process is nearing completion. Major General (retired) Hafeezur Rehman, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), confirmed that the company has received a temporary NOC and will receive a full operating license once the final regulations are in place.
Addressing concerns raised by the Committee Chairman, Aminul Haq, about the delay in granting a full license, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja explained that the satellite internet sector is relatively new to Pakistan, requiring thorough review and regulatory preparation. She added that a consultant has been hired to help finalize the regulatory framework, after which Starlink will need to reapply for its full license.
The minister also noted that Starlink is not the only satellite-based internet provider looking to enter the Pakistani market, mentioning a Chinese company that has also applied for a satellite internet license, although the company’s name was not disclosed.
