SpaceX’s satellite-based internet service, Starlink, is preparing to launch in Bangladesh, promising to significantly reshape the country’s digital framework. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is currently drafting guidelines to facilitate this new satellite internet service, aimed at enhancing connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
Despite ongoing talks over the past three years and initial hesitations from telecom regulators, progress accelerated in 2023. Last year, Starlink conducted successful technical tests through the Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL), achieving download speeds up to 150 Mbps.
After a recent meeting with Starlink’s Rebecca Slick Hunter, BIDA’s Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury highlighted the potential of Starlink to mitigate internet disruptions, facilitate rural education, and support remote freelancing hubs. He expressed optimism about overcoming the remaining hurdles to begin operations soon.
However, challenges remain, notably the affordability of Starlink’s services in comparison to local internet providers. With hardware costs around $599 and a monthly fee of $120, Starlink’s pricing is steep compared to local alternatives that offer significantly lower rates.
Local internet service providers, represented by Md Emdadul Hoque of the Internet Service Provider Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB), voice concerns about the impact of Starlink on their investments, given their extensive coverage across the country. In contrast, Robi Axiata Ltd’s Shahed Alam calls for regulatory equity to ensure a fair competitive environment.
The BTRC has also prioritized drafting guidelines that address the ‘lawful interception requirement,’ ensuring compliance with local security laws, a critical aspect for approving services like Starlink.
Despite concerns over costs and market competition, the entry of Starlink into Bangladesh heralds a new era of high-speed internet accessibility for remote areas, potentially unlocking vast educational and economic opportunities. As Bangladesh continues to enhance its digital infrastructure, including the launch of its own satellites, Starlink’s arrival marks a significant milestone in the nation’s digital transformation journey.
